Mrs Warren's Profession

Mrs Warren's Profession is a provocative play written by the renowned Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw. Premiered in 1893 but banned for its controversial subject matter, the play explores societal norms and challenges the prevailing moral attitudes of its time. It delves into the complex relationship between a mother, Mrs. Kitty Warren, and her daughter, Vivie, as they grapple with issues of morality, social expectations, and the economic constraints faced by women in the Victorian era. Shaw's sharp, witty observations and biting social commentary make this work a thought-provoking classic that is decades ahead of its time.

SHAW2020, winners of a London Pub Theatres ‘Standing Ovation’ award in 2021 and ‘Best Show’ at the Birmingham Fringe Festival in 2022, have updated the timeline of the play, delivering a fresh perspective by shifting the action to the 1930s—an era where women continued to struggle against a patriarchal, capitalist society, yet with a sense of twentieth-century empowerment looming on the horizon.

This production is sponsored by the Shaw Society, a charitable organisation dedicated to promoting the legacy of George Bernard Shaw. The collaboration underscores their commitment to engaging modern audiences with the enduring themes embedded in Shaw's work.

On Thursday evening, 8th August 2024, the performance of Mrs Warren’s Profession will be followed by a 20-minute Question-and-Answer session hosted by Gyles Brandreth, author, broadcaster, and raconteur. The performance will conclude at approximately 9:30 PM, with a 10-minute break before the Q&A, which is open to all audience members and will end soon after 10 PM.

Reviews

“It’s wonderful to see Shaw’s plays being kept alive, and to such a high standard by SHAW2020. Long may they continue.”
Dame Judi Dench, Honorary Vice-President of The Shaw Society

“It’s exciting that a fresh, young and vibrant theatre company like SHAW2020 are bringing us Shaw’s plays in new and creative ways.”
The Reviews Hub 2019

“Powerfully evokes a sense of the era.”
London Pub Theatres Magazine 2021

“The direction is spot-on, producing a broad comedy with an underlying thread of vulnerability and truth.”
North West End UK 2021

“SHAW2020’s take on the text emphasises the modernity of this play… while still feeling true to its 1933 setting.”
Cambridge Edition 2022

“A touch of class…featuring winning performances.”
The Reviews Hub 2022

Practical info

Tickets: £24.50/£21.50 concessions. Members of The Shaw Society are entitled to the concessionary rate.

Booking: Click on the seating plan below to book online. Alternatively, call 020 8995 6035 (leave a message if you can’t get through, and we will return your call).

Seating: Please note row H, the back row, is high bench seating. The auditorium has steps up the centre aisle, so book at the front for anyone who may have difficulty with steps or heights.

Running time: Approx. 2 hours, including an interval.

Latecomers: Latecomers will not be admitted until the interval.

Frequently Asked Questions: Please see here.