Princess Essex

Cast and crew staged a trailblazing play that embraces themes of race, class and feminism – with a sense of fun.

This year’s choice of play was typically South Hampstead – bold, fast-paced, joyful and empowering. Based on the true story of the first woman of colour to enter a British beauty pageant, Princess Essex is set in Southend-on-Sea in 1908. First performed at Shakespeare’s Globe in 2024, it tells a story that confronts the impact of Empire on our sense of belonging and yet manages to be a laugh-out-loud comedy. Congratulations to our 50 students in Year 10 and above – on stage and behind the scenes – who all gave outstanding performances. In true South Hampstead style, they enthusiastically embraced the script’s core message: the power of being unapologetically yourself.

Drama Teacher and production director, Mrs Bent, commented: “Watching our girls engage with a play that tackles themes of race, class, and women’s liberation has been a privilege. Their passion and creativity have brought this story to life with dignity and wit. ‘Princess Essex’ is ultimately a vibrant celebration of belonging and we are so excited to share it with you.”  

Anne Odeke, the award-winning playwright, posted online just before our first performance: “Today is the first time a school will perform ‘Princess Essex’… it feels like a handing over of the baton. It’s what the final scene of the play was always about.  South Hampstead are absolutely going to smash it, I know they will! All of us at Princess Essex HQ couldn’t be prouder, and I have a feeling Princess Dinubolu would feel much the same.”

Odeke also sent our students a video message to wish them well for the shows. The students were overjoyed by the gesture, which geared them up for a fantastic three-night run.