MURDER,SELF-PRESERVATION AND POLITICAL INTRIGUE IN THE TUDOR COURT

Hilary Mantel's hit novels Wolf Hall and Bring Up The Bodies pays homage to British history's original "working-class hero", Thomas Cromwell. Mike Poulton's sharp and stunning adaptation of Bring Up The Bodies forms the second of these critically acclaimed plays (with Mantel's promised third novel in the making). Both plays enjoyed sell-out runs at RSC Stratford, and are expected to repeat that success in London.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT?

Carrying on from where we left the end of Wolf Hall, we see Anne Boleyn finally claim her place at Henry's side, aided by the political machinations of her seemingly faithful Cromwell. But as Henry's desire for a male heir escalates and his roving eye falls on the unglamourous Jane Seymour, Cromwell must think and act fast to keep the monarchy from falling, the court subjects in check, and most importantly, to ensure his continuing favour with the irascible King.

As Henry's arduous attentions to Jane gain traction, he's desperate for a reason to be rid of her. Then rumours surface of an incestuous union between Queen Anne and her brother that threaten to engulf the whole court; Cromwell faces a stark choice. Does he throw Anne to the whims of a selfish King and orchestrate a new marriage for Henry, or should he risk his reputation and defend the Queen at all costs?

THE GENIUS OF HILARY MANTEL

Mantel's two novels, telling the story of Henry VIII's voracious appetite for lust and power, through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell have won her two consecutive Man Booker Prizes, and Mike Poulton's adaptations are rumoured to be on course for a slew of Olivier Awards next year. Mantel's third novel in the trilogy, The Mirror and the Light is being written as we speak, so fear not; there should be another adaptation in this gripping tale.