Casting Note: The content of this historically set piece involves the body type of the two leads in relationship to each other. Anne was heavy-set, which had remarkable social implications during her lifetime, and her image has greatly contributed to how she has been remembered historically. Sarah, who was regarded as the most beautiful woman in Court at the time, was tall and slim.  
 
Character Descriptions:
 
Anne: Develops from a young, gossiping Princess to the Queen who created the England we know today. Deeply religious, deeply loving, quiet, thoughtful, shy, and constantly ill. Smarter and more aware than anybody may think, she must prove herself worthy of the crown. Can be fiercely devoted to her friends, but ultimately chooses herself and what she thinks is best for her country. Despises party politics.
 
Sarah: A powerful presence who will always fight for who or what she thinks is right – most commonly, herself and the Whigs. Anne’s original “Favourite” and wife of John Churchill, she has some of the greatest influence over Anne. Though her temper and stubborn ways will cost Sarah her place in Anne’s court, she shapes the way that the Queen is remembered. Whig.
 
Abigail: An orphan whose place in Anne’s Household is secured by her cousin Sarah Churchill. Eventually becomes Anne’s “Favourite” as Sarah’s friendship with the Queen deteriorates. Is kind to Anne, supporting the Queen to the end of her life. Ultimately loyal to Harley and Anne before Sarah. Comes off as youthful, submissive, but not as naive as she may appear. Tory.
 
Robert Harley: “The Backstairs Dragon.” Abigail’s other cousin, who gets access to the Queen through her. Gains tremendous political influence, but is eventually thrust out of Anne’s Court. Is always trying to rise, politically. Can be greasy and calculating, or charming and brilliant. Tory.
 
David Hamilton: Anne’s physician who stays with her until she dies. Acts as the mediator between Anne and Sarah as their friendship ends and documents the entire experience. A true friend to Anne, who swears to defend her for as long as he lives. Not particularly stiff. Scottish, Tory.
 
John Churchill: General and Sarah’s husband. Helps Anne to win her greatest battles in the War of Spanish Succession. Warmer and gentler than his wife, he tries to fix the friendship that Sarah has broken. Close with Godolphin, he watches his friend lose his political power while he tries to hold on to his own. Whig.
 
Lord Godolphin: Lord Treasurer, another one of Anne’s oldest friends. A stern, more formal countenance, intimidating. Originally one of the most influential people in Court, but will eventually lose favor with the Queen and hence, his political power. Whig.