Helen Mirren takes to the stage as Elizabeth II in the world premiere of Peter Morgan’s new play The Audience.

The Audience tells the story of one of the most secret meetings in British public life, the weekly discussion between Elizabeth II and the Prime Minister, for which both parties have an unspoken agreement never to repeat what is said, not even to their spouses.

Breaking this contract of silence, Morgan’s play imagines a series of these pivotal meetings and how the country’s Prime Ministers, from Churchill to Cameron, may have used the private conversations as both a sounding board and a confessional, at the same time envisioning the Queen’s own advice, suggestions and occasional teasing.

The Audience marks the second time acclaimed actress Mirren has played the British monarch, having won an Oscar, Golden Globe and BAFTA for her role in the 2006 film, the screenplay for which was also written by Morgan. Her stage credits include A Month In The Country, Dance Of Death, Mourning Becomes Electra and Phèdre.

The play is directed by Stephen Daldry, whose theatre credits include current West End hit Billy Elliot The Musical and An Inspector Calls.

WINNER – 2013 Olivier Awards for Best Actress (Helen Mirren), and Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Richard McCabe).