An iconic performance returns to the big screen this April, as Helen Mirren reprises her celebrated role as Queen Elizabeth II in an encore screening of “The Audience,” presented as part of the 2026 season of National Theatre Live broadcasts at Lincoln Theater. Originally captured live in 2013 in London’s West End, “The Audience” offers a rare opportunity to witness Mirren’s award-winning portrayal in a production that has captivated global audiences.

Written by Peter Morgan and directed by Stephen Daldry, “The Audience” imagines the private weekly meetings between Queen Elizabeth II and her prime ministers, an enduring tradition spanning more than six decades. From Winston Churchill to Margaret Thatcher and David Cameron, each audience offers insight into both the political climate of the time and the personal dimensions of leadership.

At the heart of the production is Mirren’s extraordinary performance, which earned her both Olivier and Tony Awards. Known for her ability to inhabit complex historical figures, Mirren brings a nuanced humanity to the role, revealing a monarch who is at once steadfast and quietly introspective. Through subtle shifts in posture, voice, and expression, she captures the passage of time and the evolving weight of the crown, offering audiences a deeply personal portrait of one of the most recognizable figures in modern history.

The play also holds special significance for fans of “The Crown,” as Peter Morgan later expanded its themes and historical scope into the globally acclaimed series. Yet, “The Audience” remains a more intimate work, focused tightly on the unseen conversations that shaped a reign. The production blends political history with theatrical storytelling, making it accessible to a wide range of viewers.

For those who missed it the first time, or who wish to experience Mirren’s masterful performance again, “The Audience” offers a compelling return to the stage, and a rare glimpse behind palace doors.

Playing Thursday, April 23 at 6 p.m. and Friday, April 24 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for Lincoln Theater members, and $5 for youth. The Theater is located at 2 Theater Street in the heart of downtown Damariscotta 

Broadcasts from National Theatre Live are generously sponsored by First National Bank and First National Wealth Management. More information is available online at LincolnTheater.org or by contacting the theater office at info@LincolnTheater.org or 563-3424.