There can hardly be a more appropriate day to begin a tour of a play about the Queen than the day on which she becomes the longest-serving monarch in British history.

And Handbagged provides not one but two versions of Her Majesty who, along with a dual representation of Margaret Thatcher, form the basis of this tale of the relationship which develops between the two women during the former Prime Minister’s time in power.

The older pair of characters are almost part of the audience themselves, watching their younger counterparts at their weekly meetings and sharing with the audience their views on the encounters and what they were thinking at the time.

This offers both, in particular Susie Blake as the cheerfully smiley older monarch, the opportunity for some neatly-delivered comedic one liners as writer Moira Buffini deftly examines recent history through the prism of the pair’s regular conversations.

Both Margaret Thatcher characters demonstrate her unswerving commitment to her beliefs throughout episodes such as the Falklands War and the 1983 miners’ strike, rendering her a rather unsympathetic character at times.

Even more evident is the Tory leader’s steely resolve and formidable work ethic, softened only by her moment of reflection in the aftermath of the bombing of Brighton’s Grand Hotel and her nervousness prior to the pair’s first meeting.

Whereas Queen Elizabeth is portrayed as a humorous, compassionate woman who attempts and struggles to build a relationship with Mrs Thatcher.

Although the actors physically bear little resemblance to the real-life ladies, the costumes strike exactly the right note, down to the pearl necklaces, shiny patent-leather shoes and the ever-present handbags.

The plain set is simply accessorised with a stark white wooden structure with a subtle Union flag within it.

The only props are two chairs and a tea trolley, ensuring that the focus is fully on the cast and helping them easily to break the fourth wall and offer their opinions on their roles and the actions of their characters.

Taking on a number of parts including Denis Thatcher, Prince Philip, Ronald Reagan, politicians and palace staff are the two male members of the cast, Richard Teverson and Asif Khan, who switch effortlessly between accents and roles, even when one of them requires donning a pair of red stiletto shoes.

Throughout her reign the Queen has met regularly with 12 Prime Ministers.

And who knows, maybe her private thoughts about each of them are as entertaining as those delivered here.