The Daughter of Time Receives World Premiere at Charing Cross Theatre This Summer

Josephine Tey’s Acclaimed Crime Classic Comes to the Stage for the First Time

A bold new theatrical adaptation of Josephine Tey’s acclaimed crime novel The Daughter of Time will receive its world premiere at Charing Cross Theatre this summer, running from 18 July to 13 September 2025. The production is adapted by M. Kilburg Reedy and directed by Jenny Eastop, with a gala press night scheduled for Friday 25 July, coinciding with what would have been Tey’s 129th birthday.

Presented by Excelsior Entertainment, Mercurius Theatre, and Steven M. Levy for Charing Cross Theatre Productions, this new stage version brings to life one of the most respected crime novels of the 20th century. The Daughter of Time was named the greatest crime novel of all time by the British Crime Writers’ Association in 1990.

A Mystery That Rewrites History

Set in London in 1950, The Daughter of Time follows Inspector Alan Grant, laid up in hospital with a broken leg, who begins to investigate the controversial legacy of King Richard III—specifically, whether he really murdered the Princes in the Tower. As Grant explores what becomes a historical “cold case,” he’s drawn into a web of revisionist history, political manipulation, and personal introspection.

In the stage version, Grant is joined by a lively ensemble including two manipulative Shakespearean actors, a sceptical deputy, two nurses, and a lovesick American researcher, in what promises to be a witty, suspenseful and thought-provoking evening of theatre.

Adapting a Crime Classic for the Stage

Playwright M. Kilburg Reedy said:

“I was fascinated by Tey’s novel when I first read it and intrigued by how historical narratives can be shaped—or distorted—by those in power. The challenge was making Grant’s famously internal inquiry dynamic and theatrical, while remaining true to Tey’s voice. I’ve introduced new characters and moments to give audiences a fresh way into the story.”

The play made its public debut as a staged reading during the Richard III Society’s centenary celebrations in 2024, where it was met with enthusiasm by both members and local audiences. Philippa Langley MBE, the researcher behind the discovery of Richard III’s remains in 2012, praised the adaptation as “a gripping defence case for Richard III” and welcomed the full production’s London premiere.

A Timely Examination of Truth and Power

Director Jenny Eastop, Artistic Director of Mercurius Theatre, added:

“What makes The Daughter of Time so powerful is how it challenges who controls the narrative of history. This is a gripping, entertaining play that asks urgent questions about misinformation and truth in both past and present.”

Production Designer Bob Sterrett described the play as “a murder mystery, a cold case file, a love story, and a Shakespearean drama rolled into one.”

Charing Cross Theatre’s Steven M. Levy commented:

“We are proud to bring this dramatic adaptation of a truly unique novel to the stage. Though we’re often known for musicals, this is a play that stands out for its intelligence, passion, and relevance.”

Creative Team and Production Credits

• Playwright: M. Kilburg Reedy

• Director: Jenny Eastop

• Set and Costume Design: Bob Sterrett

• Lighting Design: Oliver McNally

• Sound Design: Andrew Johnson

• Composition: Haddon Kime

• Wigs and Hair Design: Diana Estrada Hudson

• Casting Director: Neil Rutherford

• Production Manager: James Anderton

• Producers: Excelsior Entertainment, Mercurius Theatre, Steven M. Levy for Charing Cross Theatre Productions Ltd.

Casting will be announced shortly.

Ticket and Venue Information

• Dates: 18 July – 13 September 2025

• Press Night: 25 July at 7.30pm

• Venue: Charing Cross Theatre, The Arches, Villiers Street, London WC2N 6NL

• Age Guidance: 10+

• Performance Schedule:

  • 18–26 July: Mon–Sat at 7.30pm, Wed at 2.30pm, Sat at 3pm

  • 29 July–13 Sept: Tue–Sat at 7.30pm, Wed at 2.30pm, Sat & Sun at 3pm

Reclaiming the Past, One Truth at a Time

As the debate around history, power and misinformation continues to dominate the public conversation, The Daughter of Time feels more timely than ever. This world premiere stage adaptation offers a fresh lens on one of the most hotly contested figures in British history—and asks audiences to reconsider everything they thought they knew about the past.

This summer, the truth takes centre stage at Charing Cross Theatre.