The Golden Circle

Costumed live performances

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When

19 July - 31 August 2025 (no performances on 04 August)

10:45 - 15:30

Where

King's State Apartments (see individual performances for specific room)

Ticketing information

Included in palace admission (Members go free)

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Events

Many ambitious and talented people flocked to Kensington Palace in search of power and prestige, but was this really how it panned out?

This summer, discover what it takes to enter the golden circle of the trusted favourites of King George II and Queen Caroline. These are the rules of the game of court.

Meet the performers

Two aspiring writers, John Gay and Eliza Haywood, and a mischievous royal attendant, are in hot competition to win the Queen’s attention and ultimately a job. But at the palace, danger lurks.

Every glance and curtsey has the potential to unleash scandal on any unsuspecting courtier, trapping them inside a web of intrigue and deception. All the courtier can do is fight back with the best weapons at their disposal: charm, glamour and wit.

These are the rules of the game of court. Will the writers be victorious in their quest and avoid the Queen's displeasure?

See the schedule of performances below.

Performances

Discover our exciting performance line-up.

The Queen's Levee

Location: Council Chamber in the King's State Apartments
Timings: 10:45 & 14:15 (15 minutes)

This is your exclusive invitation to the Levee ceremony, where Queen Caroline will be dressed by a select few of her most honoured entourage, to finally emerge in all her royal splendour.

The Writers Revenge

Location: Drawing room in the King's State Apartments
Timings: 12:00 & 15:00 (15 minutes)

Two aspiring writers go head-to-head in their quest for royal approval. But at the palace, it is hard to tell friend from foe, and the slightest slip could spell disaster. Will the Queen be in a favourable mood and give the two writers a job?

Outside of the scene times you will be able to converse with the courtiers as they go about the palace and gardens, showing off their dancing skills, power dressing and impeccable manners and etiquette.