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CAROUSEL Milly’s Nell Gwynn diary

Milly's Nell Gwynn diary

A day in the life: Nell Gwynn’s canine star

First Published 19 February 2016, Last Updated 25 February 2016

It doesn’t matter if you’re a Bond girl. It doesn’t matter if you’re an award-winning playwright. It doesn’t even matter if you’ve somehow managed to recreate Shakespeare’s Globe for an indoor winter audience. If a dog comes on stage and waves, it steal the show. Enter Milly, professional canine actor extraordinaire and award-winning worthy waver.

The undeniably gorgeous pup is currently gracing the London stage alongside Gemma Arterton and co in the West End transfer of Jessica Swale’s critically acclaimed Shakespeare’s Globe production Nell Gwynn. And while we found the story of the legendary actor’s rise to fame from orange seller to mistress of Charles II fascinating, we were equally intrigued by what a (acting) dog’s life exactly looks like. To find out, we tasked Milly – or a helpful human friend at least – to turn Instagram blogger for the day to document an average 24 hours from walkies to curtain calls. Get ready to fall in love with out new favourite four-legged West End star…

When I arrive at the Apollo Theatre, I first have to check in at the stage door.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

I’ve been sent lots of lovely good luck cards from all of my canine pals! Thanks all!

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Here’s me channelling my inner Nell Gwynn. Orange is definitely the new black.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

I like to test out the auditorium seats and make sure they’re comfy enough for our wonderful audiences.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Did you know that King Charles II took his hair inspiration from us spaniels? Long live the perm!

Nell Gywnn's Milly

I’ve found my name in the programme! I play Oliver Cromwell, one of Charles II’s top dogs.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

I’ve been practising my pawtograph for all of my loyal fans.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Here I am at the prompt desk making sure that everything is set and ready for the start of the show.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

In between the matinee and evening performances, I take a nice, long nap in my bed; it’s tiring work being an actor.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Who’s that devilishly good looking pup that I’ve spotted on the A Board?

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Whoops, I got caught up looking at myself! I’m meant to be on stage soon – I better head inside…

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Show time! Oh I do love working with Gemma and David – it means lots of on stage cuddles.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

It’s thirsty work being on stage, so myself and my fellow actors have to make sure we stay hydrated.

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Evening show done. I’m heading off home before another show tomorrow night. Woof!

Nell Gywnn's Milly

Nell Gwynn plays at the Apollo Theatre until 30 April. You can book tickets through us here.

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