They've disgraced our trade. Ruined our art. They've put a woman on the stage.

Bawdy, witty and full of merriment, Synchronicity Theatre open their 21st season with this gem from British playwright Jessica Swale following instant success at London's historic Globe Theatre. Telling the story of Nell Gwynn, an ambitious theatre orange seller and her rise to greatest actress of her day and Royal mistress. From scattered quotes, accounts and paintings, Swale has assembled this 17th-century icon anew in this fizzing biopic, and into a modern heroine for the 21st Century.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT?

The year is 1660, and the Puritans have fled, taking Cromwell's austere laws with them. Charles II has exploded onto the London scene, bringing with him a love of all things loud, French and sexy. Over at the Drury Lane Theatre, a loud mouthed young orange seller is plucked from the crowd by an enterprising actor to become the country's first actress, a move that by turns enrages and enraptures baying audiences. But when Charles notices this beguiling newcomer, the changing landscape of the theatre, the court and the city at large is no match for the talents of Nell Gwynn.