KATHARINE

This autumn, a new immersive theatre production will tour selected UK cathedrals, reimagining the life of Katharine of Aragon to mark the 500th anniversary of the King's Great Matter. Created by Slaget Theatre in association with Whispered Tales and written by playwright Nicola Werenowska, KATHARINE is an atmospheric invocation of a woman who refused to be erased. The production strips away the spectacle of the Tudor court to reveal the pulse of the woman beneath the crown. Combining binaural audio technology, contemporary dance and site-specific performance, the production transforms historic cathedral spaces into immersive theatrical environments, inviting audiences to experience the story of Henry VIII's first wife from her own perspective, offering a fresh interpretation of one of Tudor history's most significant women.

The company will also present a programme of free pop-up experiences in libraries across Essex and Suffolk, featuring extracts from the production and a newly commissioned audio work exploring Katharine's love of books and commitment to women's education.

Performer Olena Hrabchak will appear throughout the guided experience, combining movement and physical storytelling with the unfolding audio narrative. The production is directed by Esther Simpson of Whispered Tales, with choreography by Lisa Simpson.

Tour dates include performances at St Nicholas Church, Harwich, Chester Cathedral and Peterborough Cathedral, as well as a VIP performance at Colchester Castle.

Tour Dates

• October 15th - October 16th 2026: St Nicholas' Church, Church Street Harwich, CO123DR 
• November 10th  - November 14th 2026: Chester Cathedral, Chester,  CH1 2DY 
• 21st January - 23 January 2027: Peterborough Cathedral, Peterborough PE1 1XS

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