PRETTY, WITTY NELL

PRETTY, WITTY NELL

Clarissa Adele / Rogue ShakespeareProfessional company

55 minutesBedlam Theatre
OFFIE award-winning, critically acclaimed one-woman tragicomic history, written entirely in rhyming iambic pentameter, telling the true story of Nell Gwynne, the famous actress/prostitute and mistress of the wild British monarch, King Charles II. FringeReview Outstanding Theatre Award 2024. 'An outstanding gem' (FringeReview.co.uk). 'A standout solo show – perfect!' (BroadwayWorld.com). 'Smith‘s writing is exquisite... Simply put, this play is a work of genius' ***** (Pink Prince Theatre). 'A spellbinding, accomplished performance' **** (TheReviewsHub.com). 'An extremely strong performance' **** (BroadwayBaby.com). 'Adele is mesmerising' ***** (London Pub Theatres Magazine). Reviews: https://www.londonpubtheatres.com/review-pretty-witty-nell-by-ryan-j-w-smith-at-barons-court-theatre-22-26-july-2025, https://asscenewitheithne.squarespace.com/asscenewitheithnereviews/pretty-witty-nell, https://www.pinkprincetheatre.com/post/review-pretty-witty-nell-barons-court-theatre

About the show

PRETTY, WITTY NELL is a one-woman tragicomic history by Clarissa Adele and Rogue Shakespeare, performed at Bedlam Theatre. Written entirely in rhyming iambic pentameter, it tells the true story of Nell Gwynne, the famous actress and mistress of King Charles II. The show runs for 55 minutes and is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over. The production carries a note that it is written without a word of profanity, though the subject matter is ultimately the story of a real-life prostitute.

Why see this show?

A solo show that tells the story of Nell Gwynne entirely in rhyming iambic pentameter — a technical feat in itself, and a genuinely warm piece of tragicomic storytelling. Smart, accessible history theatre at Bedlam.

Event Details

Tuesday 12 - Sunday 17 August 2025

All performances at 18:30

6 performances

55 minutes

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Ticket Price

£15.50 (12.50)

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the show run?

The show runs for 55 minutes.

What does it cost?

Tickets are £15.50, with a concession rate of £12.50.

Is there an age requirement?

The show is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over.

Are there any content warnings?

The show contains distressing or potentially triggering themes. The production notes it contains no profanity, but it is ultimately the story of a real-life prostitute.

What kind of show is it?

It is a one-woman tragicomic history written entirely in rhyming iambic pentameter, telling the true story of Nell Gwynne, actress and mistress of King Charles II.

Where is the show performed?

The show takes place at Bedlam Theatre as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

About This Theatre Production

PRETTY, WITTY NELL is a theatre performance at Bedlam Theatre during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 55 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.

Venue: Bedlam Theatre

Bedlam Theatre is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • Check for trigger warnings if sensitive to certain topics
  • Most Fringe theatre runs without interval
  • Latecomers may not be admitted
  • Consider matinee performances for a relaxed experience

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £15.5

Age Guidance: 12+

Content Warnings: Contains distressing or potentially triggering themes, More information We believe the show is genuinely family friendly as it is written in rhyming iambic verse, with not a word of profanity in sight. However, ultimately, the story of Nell Gwynne, no matter how polite, is obviously still the story of a real-life prostitute.

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2025

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.PRETTY, WITTY NELL represents the theatrical innovation that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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