REVIEW: THE MARVELLOUS ADVENTURES OF MARY SEACOLE at Rosemary Branch Theatre 2 – 5 October 2025
‘Daniella Pollendine carries us on an emotional journey in this beautifully written play’. ★★★★
The intimate auditorium of Rosemary Branch Theatre is resonating with the sound of reggae music. The audience nod and tap to the beat as they wait. The stage is set with three old fashioned suitcases, a chandelier and an intriguing old wooden ladder.
Mary Seacole hurries on stage and we are launched into her world of 18 century adventures. Our journey begins with Mary learning the value of herbs and spices for medicinal purposes and we listen to her as she sings with her mother, reflecting the harmonious relationship they shared throughout her life. Mary played by Daniella Pollendine carries us on an emotional journey from Jamaica to England to Turkey and Crimea and several other destinations in between. Daniella creates each location with few props and minimal staging, with the lighting design sometimes interrupting the flow of this beautifully written play. The kindness and selfless dedication of Mary Seacole to the soldiers in her care was portrayed with great sensitivity and charm by Daniella Pollendine. Daniella seamlessly shifted her vocal tone to portray males in the story.
Scenes on the battlefield were moving as Daniella Pollendine guided the audience through the loss, and heartbreak Mary Seacole experienced as she risked her life to care for the soldier. Mary Seacole’s strength and resilience was portrayed with authenticity and vigour demonstrating her frustration at the racism she faced. Daniella Pollendine was able to draw her audience into this extraordinary world and hold them captive for the marvellous adventures of Mary Seacole. A hugely important part of British history and a wonderful celebration of a Black British hero.
THE MARVELLOUS ADVENTURES OF MARY SEACOLE at Rosemary Branch Theatre 2 – 5 October 2025
Mary Jane Seacole was a British nurse and businesswoman, famous for her nursing work during the Crimean War and for publishing the first autobiography written by a black woman in Britain. The show is a re-imagining of the late Cleo Sylvestre’s acclaimed one-woman show about Seacole’s life.
Adapted and performed by: Daniella Pollendine
Directed by: Sophia Woolfenden, Maria Sousa
Reviewer: Paula David
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