In 1588, England faced the Spanish Armada and Plymouth found itself at the heart of an extraordinary moment in European history, as fear, faith, ambition and political power collided. Now, Plymouth Presents Theatre Company brings this turbulent world to the stage in 1588, a gripping historical drama that looks beyond the familiar story of England’s victory to explore the human lives caught up in the conflict.

Told from both English and Spanish perspectives, 1588 reveals how ordinary men and women experienced events that would shape the destiny of nations. The play invites audiences to question the stories they are told, the beliefs they hold, and the power of those who control the narrative. What happens when words become weapons? When stories shape nations, rumours ignite fear, and the language of power can cost lives?

At the heart of the drama is Cornelius, a poet who believes in the power of words to express emotion and win love. Yet in a world where language can inspire devotion, stir hatred and manipulate populations, words have consequences. His tragic journey reveals the devastating distance between what we say, what we mean, and what others choose to believe.

More than four centuries later, the questions remain as poignant as ever. From political speeches and religious rhetoric, to social media and the headlines that shape our daily lives, language continues to influence how we see the world and one another.

Words can create love. Words can create hatred. Words can create nations. Words can kill.

Discover 1588, a bold, thought-provoking new play about history, humanity and the dangerous power of words, brought to you in The Drum by Plymouth Presents Theatre Company.

Plymouth Presents Theatre Company

Formed in 1986, Plymouth Presents is an established amateur theatre company with a passion for original writing, bold artistic ideas and nurturing local creative talent. From its debut production, The Megahype, a futuristic political satire staged in The Academy nightclub, the company has championed innovative storytelling and community engagement.

Please note that this is an Amateur Community Production.