THE VIRGIN'S LOVER

The inextricably entwined loves, scandals, and political machinations of the young Elizabeth I, called the "Virgin Queen," are fictionalized with protracted conversations and elaborate (and, at times, dreary) tapestries of historical detail. The title lover, Robert Dudley, his steadfastly loyal wife, and the willful Bess form a triangle, adding tension to already tense times. Davina Porter throws herself into this unabridged production with Elizabethan gusto, dramatic flair, and considerable aplomb. She vivifies every character memorably, plays every moment and momentary fragment at full throttle, and never wavers in her concentration. She performs, in fact, as if she has always harbored a burning desire, not only to play Elizabeth, but to play her entire court! An achievement that defines bravura. Y.R. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 06]