King of Fools

“King of Fools” is a new musical premiered last year at the Merlin Theatre, Frome, to great acclaim. It has been revived by Kairos Theatre Company for a West Country tour in 2026.

“King of Fools” is written by former Frome Festival Director, Martin Dimery (sometimes known as “Willy Wilbury” in the Unravelling Wilburys!), in musical collaboration with Helen Turner, renowned keyboard player with Paul Weller’s Style Council, and solo work. Martin and Helen appear in the four piece on stage band.

Set in the court of Henry the Eighth and Anne Boleyn, Henry’s famous jester, Will Sommers, finds himself the butt of the King’s frustration as the royal divorce goes through interminable delays. Will discovers a young barmaid called Jane, in a Cheapside tavern, entertaining the regulars. Will thinks Jane could be the ideal companion and female jester for Anne. He presents her at court as “Jane Fool” and she becomes an instant success. He has also secretly fallen in love with her. As Henry’s disillusionment with Anne grows, so Jane is drawn into Cromwell’s evil plot to be rid of Henry’s young queen. Anne, though, sees Jane as the perfect scapegoat, setting up a gripping finale from the scaffold.

The musical score draws a range of styles from rock to vaudeville and Music Hall. Kairos Theatre Company incorporates experienced performers from around the region and specialises in presenting new or rarely seen plays.

“Funny, clever and brilliantly performed.”

“Splendid book, music, singing, dancing and acting.”

Age Rating: 11+

Purchase your ticket by clicking on the Ticket Source logo below.

Tickets £16

 Under 16s £12

Kairos Theatre Company