Angela Kelly, longtime personal dresser and confidante to Queen Elizabeth II, has publicly praised an upcoming stage play based on her relationship with the late monarch. The production, titled By Royal Appointment, was written by acclaimed screenwriter Daisy Goodwin and inspired by Kelly’s decades of service and intimate bond with the Queen .
From Liverpool to the Palace: Kelly’s Unique Journey with the Monarch
Originally from Liverpool, Kelly began working for the Queen in the early 1990s and rose through the ranks to oversee the monarch’s wardrobe, jewellery, and insignia. Beyond attire, she became one of the Queen’s closest confidantes someone allowed to style her hair and choose her public appearances.
The play draws its emotional core from a rare closeness that spanned nearly 30 years. Through respectful dialogue and subtle theatrical storytelling, it gracefully portrays this bond. At its heart, moreover, lies a friendship that transcended royal protocol and formal boundaries. In particular, Daisy Goodwin well recognized for her historical dramas delves into the deeply rooted years of trust between Queen Elizabeth II and Angela Kelly.
A Rare Royal Endorsement Signals Deep Trust and Respect
Angela Kelly lends significant weight to the play’s reception, especially because she fiercely guarded Queen Elizabeth II’s privacy. Unlike many notable figures who either chose not to comment or deliberately avoided endorsing the production, Kelly’s approval, therefore, stands out.
It clearly affirms that the play treats its subject with the sensitivity, insight, and respect that such a figure deserves. Moreover, her rare endorsement suggests a level of authenticity that reassures both royal enthusiasts and critics alike.
With her endorsement, audiences can expect a heartfelt and carefully balanced portrayal of royal life one rooted in trust, dignity, and a shared history
What Audiences Can Expect from By Royal Appointment
The play recently premiered at the Theatre Royal Bath and will tour several theatres across the UK before moving to the West End
Instead of political drama, the play emphasizes personal moments how Kelly advised the Queen on colour choices, helped with jewellery, and arranged outfits that often carried hidden messages. The story spans from the 1960s through the Queen’s final public duties, highlighting how fashion and trust shaped each public appearance
Veteran actress Anne Reid plays Queen Elizabeth II with quiet dignity, while Caroline Quentin portrays Kelly with fierce loyalty and warmth. The performances draw praise for capturing the delicate balance between respect for monarchy and honest storytelling .
