Lesley Smith as Emma Hamilton
Bewdley Festival favourite Lesley Smith returns once again to Bewdley Festival as Emma Hamilton - one of the most remarkable women in English history. Born into poverty in north-west England she moved to London and reinvented herself, using her striking beauty and personality to rise through society. Artist George Romney painted her many times, making her a celebrated figure. After relationships with several wealthy men, she married Sir William Hamilton, the British Ambassador to Sicily.
Emma later met Admiral Nelson, Britain’s greatest naval hero, and the two fell deeply in love. Their relationship caused a major scandal, particularly as Emma gave birth to Nelson’s daughter, Horatia, while still married to Hamilton. After William Hamilton’s death in 1803, followed by Nelson’s death at Trafalgar in 1805, Emma’s life declined, and she ended her days struggling with debt, drink and gambling.
Join Lesley in her striking portrayal of Emma Hamilton as she reflects on her dramatic rise and fall after Nelson’s death.
