Quinta das Borboletas – Areeiro, Almancil

Tickets 15 euros includes the show, a traditional English tea and a glass of ‘bubbly’.

When Portugal’s last king fled to England in 1910 the monarchy ended and soon afterwards the country became a Republic. The young ex-king, finding himself as something of a celebrity in London, was often seen out and about in the most fashionable spots in town. Accompanied by his glamorous lover, a risqué French actress, the play begins at an afternoon tea dance in Selfridges Department Store.

Based on fact and a degree of exaggeration, the story of ‘Royal Tea’ follows the couple as they encounter the ex-king’s disapproving relative, Queen Mary of Teck and other famous people of the time. Isadora Duncan, Anna Pavlova, Christabel Pankhurst and Harry Selfridge are all played as comic caricatures and served traditional English tea alongside the audience. Transported by the magic of theatre the audience will discover they are dining at Selfridges instead of watching a show at a restaurant in the Algarve!

Entertainment is provided by Selfridge’s Orchestra, catwalk models in a fashion show, an extravagant performance of modern movement by Isadora Duncan and the dulcet voice of Gaby Deslys “Forever Blowing Bubbles”.

Written in rhyme and directed by Carolyn Kain. Performed by an international group of ‘Random Players’

Profits to ‘Algarve Families in Need’ – registered charity

Pre-booking essential Quinta das Borboletas – 963 812 845