Mary Queen of Scots by Scottish Ballet

Two women. Two crowns. One story. As death approaches, Elizabeth I of England is haunted by memories – real and imagined – of her cousin, Mary, Queen of Scots.

This major new production from Scottish Ballet’s choreographer-in-residence Sophie Laplane and co-creator, James Bonas (The Crucible), draws on the complex relationship between Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I of England. Laplane’s bold choreography blends classicism with modernity, reshaping a familiar story with powerful originality.

Soutra Gilmour’s striking, contemporary set is complemented by dazzling costumes that capture the grandeur of the era, with nods to haute couture and punk. New music, by the team Mikael Karlsson and Michael P Atkinson is performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra. Guest Artist Charlotta Öfverholm, as the older Elizabeth, brings her rich storytelling expertise to the company’s dancers.

An iconic story, unconventionally told, adding to the canon of rich, contemporary repertoire that is uniquely Scottish Ballet

Mary, Queen of Scots is generously supported by the Bently Foundation and Five in Five Campaign Patrons.

  • Tour Dates

  • Theatre Royal, Glasgow
    17 – 20 Sep 2025
  • His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen
    2 – 4 Oct 2025
  • Festival Theatre, Edinburgh
    16 – 18 Oct 2025