The Herbal Bed - a true life Shakespearean tale
- ann-evans
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
The Herbal Bed written by Peter Whelan, directed by Danny Masewicz, a Bear Pit Theatre Company Production running from 27 to 31 January 2026.
Review by Ann Evans
The Herbal Bed is based on the true story of Susanna Hall, the eldest daughter of William Shakespeare who in 1613 was the subject of a public slander case accused of adultery and of having contracted a venereal disease. Susanna fought these accusations brought against her by a local young man named Jack Lane. The proceedings took place in the ecclesiastical court in Worcester Cathedral.
It's the summer of 1613 and Susanna Hall is married to Dr John Hall a well-respected physician and herbalist. Susanna, played by Hannah McBride, is a woman searching for her own identity, loyal to her husband’s position in the town but also needing to be shown love – something her husband is lacking. Hannah McBride takes this role in her stride, her character emerging quite subtly, as her love for each of the people close to her is distinctly portrayed.
Tony Homer plays her husband the physician Dr John Hall, a kindly, dignified man totally committed to his patients, his work – and his family. The couple have a young daughter, Elizabeth, already eager to learn about the plants grown in their Stratford-upon-Avon garden. In the production two young actresses play Elizabeth – Ivy Rule and Naia West. They also have a servant, Hester (Charlotte Ledger), a young woman totally loyal to the family and certainly not as naïve as you are led to believe although she struggles to do and say the right thing when it becomes evident that Susanna, whilst caring deeply for her husband, is in love with local haberdasher Rafe Smith.
Almost like a Shakespearean tragedy itself, Rafe Smith, a softly spoken man played by Dominic Rose has a great respect for Dr John Hall and is continually struggling with his emotions, aware that Hall regards him as a friend he is torn between right and wrong, trapped in an unhappy marriage and in love with his friend’s wife. He shows another side however when pushed too far by Jack Lane – played excellently by Suneil Bagri. Lane is a wastrel, a mischief maker and would-be ladies-man who is being taught medicine by the doctor. Whilst drunk one night, Jack Lane makes up a story accusing Susanna of committing adultery with Rafe – and that she also contracted a venereal disease from him.
The scandal spreads throughout the town and the Hall family know they must fight these slanderous accusations, not only to clear their own names but to protect the family’s medical practice – if that collapsed, so many people who relied on them to heal their ailments would also suffer.
However, Susanna, Rafe and Hester are all aware that there is some truth in the love affair accusations and they find that lies must be told as questions from the clergy are fired at them and guilt weighs heavily on some more than others. Adding to their emotional turmoil is their strong Christian beliefs which weigh heavily on their consciences.
After much debate it’s decided that Susanna sues Jack Lane for slander and he is prosecuted in the ecclesiastical courts of Worcester Cathedral presided over by Bishop Parry of Worcester and assisted by Barnabus Goche, Vicar-General.
From the very start, this play draws you into the lives of these people. It gives a wonderful glimpse of Jacobean life, in particular the way we hear all about the herbs and plant substances used in the treatment of illnesses at the time; the knowledge imparted so naturally which adds to the excellent portrayal of the characters by these talented actors.
The proceedings in the cathedral are gripping especially when Barnabus Goche played brilliantly by Director Danny Masewicz comes into his own.
An altogether intense production that highlights morality, honour, a person’s position in society, loyalty, manipulation and religious expectations. Yet delivered in a light and endearing manner that is compelling and entertaining.
Great acting by all the cast, while the director and production team have done an excellent job in giving us a glimpse into a real-life situation in Shakespeare’s time. Costumes – which were made by Pat Atkins of The Lypett Household, Worcester, are all hand-made with fabric sourced locally. The set, scenery and lighting are atmospheric, and the work behind the scenes combines to make a wonderful production that shouldn’t be missed.
For tickets call 0333 666 3366 or visit: https://www.thebearpit.org.uk/whats-on/the-herbal-bed/
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