In July 1916, the lawn of a historic Kent house became the stage for an open-air comedy performance. During the First World War, an all-female amateur theatrical group staged a special production of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. The event marked a major historical anniversary and raised funds for a home supporting disabled soldiers and sailors. The scenic garden provided a stark contrast to the grim realities of the conflict, with wounded soldiers entertained by afternoon tea on the lawn. Yet the war remained inescapable: the Battle of the Somme had just begun, and the distant thud of guns could be heard locally.
Newspaper Report from 1916
The Kent Messenger and Maidstone Telegraph reported on the charming scene. A July 8, 1916 article stated: "A more charming setting for Shakespeare's comedy can scarcely be imagined than the gardens at Great Comp, now in all their summer beauty. The Elizabethan Manor House, the residence of Mr and Mrs Heron-Maxwell, formed an effective background, with roses and other flowers in full bloom, and flanked with shrubberies, while overhead was a large cherry tree loaded with the ripening fruit. For the visitors, a capital stand had been erected, which enabled them to have an unobstructed view of the delightful scenes."
Trailblazing Women Behind the Production
The local women behind the production were formidable. Beyond the stage, they helped establish the Land Army scheme in Kent to boost food production. David Chesover, chair of trustees at Great Comp, said: "It is absolutely fascinating to read about this Shakespearean endeavour from over 100 years ago. Vera, Max, and Eva McLaren were formidable women who were deeply involved in the women's suffrage movement and the Liberal Party. To see trailblazers of that calibre - women who were fighting for the vote and setting up the local Land Army - also organising a beautiful, all-female production of Twelfth Night to raise funds for injured soldiers is deeply inspiring. They managed to create a much-needed positive distraction and bring joy to their community, even while the guns of the Somme echoed across the Channel."
Recent Discoveries and Modern Tribute
Recent research by local historians and relatives has shed new light on the three women who lived at the property. Previously, little was known about their involvement in regional women's rights and sport. An acclaimed contemporary theatre company is now bringing this history full circle with an open-air performance on Thursday, July 16, which is sold out. The garden will host extra events later in the year. Further details about the historic house and summer events can be found on the official website at Great Comp Garden. Location: Sevenoaks.
