The Mad Gay King

A queer retelling of the life and love of one of history’s most scandalous kings.

When Richard Hornig, a stable master with a secret, arrives at the court of King Ludwig II, the young monarch’s most decadent obsessions are ignited—placing the future of his kingdom, his legacy, and even his sanity at the edge of a dangerous precipice.

Based on true events, THE MAD GAY KING is a queer retelling of the life and love of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, an infamous 19th century monarch who funded the operas of Richard Wagner, built a flight of fairy tale castles, and was ultimately deposed by his conservative government on the grounds of homosexual insanity.

This sweepingly romantic World Premiere, presented by An Accomplished Woman Productions and directed by Scott Le Crass (Rose, Buff), marks the UK debut of playwright Christopher Adams-Cohen. Integrating its historical sources with elements of the contemporary queer underground, this thrilling new production is a celebration of the enduring power of fantasy and mythmaking as a means of LGBTQ+ survival.

CAST & CREATIVES

Playwright | Christopher Adams-Cohen

Director | Scott Le Crass

Producer | Amanda Schulz

TICKET PRICE
£10 - £28

WHEN
3 - 19 October

WHERE
King's Head Theatre

Content Warning: mental illness, suicidal ideation, incidents of antisemitism, PTSD, sex

Age Guidance: 18+

Running time: 70 min