Al Murray and Carrie Hope Fletcher to star in ‘The Crown Jewels’

Sean Foley directs an all-star cast in Simon Nye's new British comedy inspired by Colonel Thomas Blood’s plan to steal the royal regalia in the Tower of London.

2023 is the year of kings named Charles. As well as King Charles III’s coronation, a new play based on a royal heist to steal King Charles II’s jewels will open in London.

Simon Nye’s The Crown Jewels will premeire at the Garrick Theatre, with previews from 7 July, ahead of an opening night on 19 July, and performances to 16 September.

In 1671, Irish officer Colonel Thomas Blood planned to steal the crown jewels in the Tower of London. Press material states: “With a gang of misfits by his side, what could possibly go wrong? But Charles II can’t afford a royal scandal, and no King likes people handling their Crown Jewels…”

Sean Foley directs a roster of British comics and West End actors in the world premiere. Idiots Assemble: Spitting Image The Musical creator Al Murray stars, as well as Company’s Mel Giedroyc, Neil Morrissey, Carrie Hope Fletcher, Joe Thomas, Aidan McArdle, and Tanvi Virmani.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to direct Simon Nye’s hilarious new play. An entirely modern take on the Restoration Comedy, it transports us to a completely different time - a time when England had a new king…whose name was Charles. I’m excited to be working with our brilliant cast, and we all hope to thoroughly entertain audiences in one of my favourite theatres - the Garrick - over this Coronation summer," said Foley.

The show's creative team includes Michael Taylor (set and costume design,) Natasha Chivers (lighting design,) and Andy Graham (sound design.)

The Crown Jewels is at the Garrick Theatre.

Photo credit: Neil Morrissey, Al Murray, and Carrie Hope Fletcher (Headshots courtesy of production)