History, pageantry and fun: Rugeley Lions present an Audience with Henry VIII

What a memorable night we shared at the majestic St. Augustine’s Church, Rugeley, as we stepped back in time to experience the splendour of Tudor England. The life and times of King Henry VIII were brought vividly to life, delighting our audience with history, humour, and pageantry.

By contributor Elaine Morgan
Published
Last updated

Adding to the fun, our Lionesses and friends took on the roles of Henry’s six famous wives. You may have recognised them:

  • Katherine of Aragon – Lion Jane

  • Anne Boleyn – Club President Debra

  • Jane Seymour – Mandy

  • Anne of Cleves – Lion Elaine

  • Katherine Howard – Cannock Lion Bev

  • Catherine Parr – Karen

Rugeley and District Lions Club with Henry VIII
Rugeley and District Lions Club with Henry VIII

A special thank you goes to Town Crier Adrian Basford for his lively introductions, and to John Parks for capturing the evening with wonderful photographs.

Jack Abbot as Henry VIII
Jack Abbot as Henry VIII
Henry VIII with his Wives and Rugeley Town Crier Adrian Basford paying his respects to the King.
Henry VIII with his Wives and Rugeley Town Crier Adrian Basford paying his respects to the King.

Of course, the star of the show was Jack Abbot as King Henry himself, delivering a performance that kept the audience enthralled. With warm mulled wine, mince pies, and the magnificent setting of St. Augustine’s, the evening was everything we hoped for—an authentic celebration of history, fellowship, and festive cheer.

Henry VIII with Lions President Debra Coburn as Anne Boleyn
Henry VIII with Lions President Debra Coburn as Anne Boleyn
Henry VIII with Lion Elaine Morgan as Anne of Cleves.
Henry VIII with Lion Elaine Morgan as Anne of Cleves.
Rugeley Town Crier with Lion Pauline Holmes who manned the ticket sales.
Rugeley Town Crier with Lion Pauline Holmes who manned the ticket sales.
Jack Abbot as Henry VIII
Jack Abbot as Henry VIII
Henry VIII with Lions President Debra Coburn as Anne Boleyn
Henry VIII with Lions President Debra Coburn as Anne Boleyn