Horatio Nelson: Fever and Fire at Theatre at the Tabard

Horatio Nelson: Fever and Fire, is a brand new one-man show written and performed by Adam Preston in costume created by Primetime Emmy winner Dougie Hawkes. Based on deep research this production breathes new life into the epic story of Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson, revealing the triumphs, scandals, and psychological depths of Britain’s greatest naval hero. 

In an age when historical narratives are ripe for rediscovery, Horatio Nelson: Fever and Fire unveils the man behind the legend. From his breathtaking victories at the Battles of the Nile, Copenhagen, and Trafalgar, which shaped the fate of nations, to his scandalous romance with the vibrant Emma Hamilton, which shocked Georgian society, Nelson’s life is a rollercoaster of ambition and passion. Uniquely, the show delves into Nelson’s early years, exploring how the loss of his mother at age nine and his overlooked status as a “middle child” fuelled a relentless drive for remarkable achievements and a need to be seen.

This fresh psychological lens makes this a must-see for theatregoers and history buffs alike. Adam Preston brings unmatched authority and stagecraft to the role. His credits include the hit podcast series Trafalgar Squared, and historical writing for heritage organisation The Trafalgar Way. A seasoned performer, Preston has starred in Chekhov’s The Proposal at Prague’s Na Pradle Theatre and has performed stand-up all over the U.K. including at the Edinburgh Fringe.

His intimate, dynamic performance at the Tabard promises to transport audiences from the stormy decks of the Victory to the glittering salons of Naples.“Nelson’s story is one of the greatest true dramas in history, yet it’s been sidelined for too long,” says Preston. “From his childhood heartbreak to his world-changing victories and scandalous love life, this is a ripe fruit waiting to drop.”

Featuring costumes by 2025 Primetime Emmy Award winner Dougie Hawkes (Outstanding Period Costume, Bridgerton) and sound design by Amanda Priestley.