NHB Classic Plays Mrs. Warren's Profession

Bernard Shaw's incendiary moral classic, in a version edited and introduced by director Dominic Cooke. Seen in the West End in 2025, starring real-life mother and daughter Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter. 'I am my mother's daughter. I am like you. But my work is not your work, and my way is not your way.' Vivie Warren is a woman ahead of her time. Estranged from her wealthy mother, she delights in a glass of whisky and a good detective story, and is determined to carve herself a sparkling legal career in an age ruled by men. Her mother, however, is a part of that old patriarchal order. Exploiting it has earned Mrs. Warren a fortune and paid for her daughter's expensive education – but at what cost? Bernard Shaw's incendiary moral classic was written in 1893, but, after being banned by the Lord Chamberlain, didn't receive a full public production in London until 1925. This version of the play, edited and introduced by director Dominic Cooke, was produced at the Garrick Theatre in London's West End in 2025, starring real-life mother and daughter Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter.