Community Events
About This Event
Fri 4 Sep 2026 | 19:30Age guidance: 12+
Join acclaimed historians Suzannah Lipscomb and Kate Williams for this unmissable live event exploring Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I—two women caught in one of the greatest political and personal crises of the 16th century.
Two queens. One crown. A decision that would change the monarchy forever.
Working back from the fall of the axe at Fotheringhay Castle, the discussion explores the chain of events and decisions that led Elizabeth to sign her cousin’s death warrant. What went so wrong between these two women? Why was Elizabeth so threatened—and could this tragedy have been avoided?
Through vivid storytelling, drawing on the latest research,KateandSuzannahwill examine espionage, treason, and gender politics in the Tudor world, from William Cecil’s spy networks and Mary’s defiant embroideries to the Babington Plot. They’ll challenge how male historians have long pitted these women against each other and will reframe their choices as acts of courage and consequence.
Dates: 4th Sept 26
Venue: Grand Opera House York
Categories: Festivals, Tours & Guides, Entertainment, Family Friendly, Great Outdoors
Book tickets at the event website.
Contact: Phone: 0333 0096690