Duchess

Belvoir Special Ep. 6: The Business of Belvoir

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Episode notes

Episode Description:

For our final episode of this very special season, the Duchess will be meeting with the CEO of Belvoir Castle, Emma Stenning, to discuss the business of Belvoir: past, present and future. In their conversation, the Duchess explains how historically a family like the Manners would have made their money, Duchess reveals to Emma when she plans to retire, and we finally learn who has more staff - Belvoir or the Beckhams!

Top Quotes:

“I think of you [The Duchess of Rutland] as the artistic director of Belvoir. You have so many ideas, such great clarity of vision. I’ve worked with so many great artists and you’re another one.” - Emma Stenning

“This is a theatre. Life’s a stage and I’m just playing the game. I will always be miss Emma Watkins - that Welsh farmer’s daughter.” - Duchess of Rutland

About Belvoir Castle:

Belvoir Castle is a 16,000-acre estate in Leicestershire, it’s history dates back to the 11th century in 1067. Crowning a hill, the Castle’s turrets and towers rise over the Vale of Belvoir. Belvoir Estate has been passed down through 36 successive generations and an unbroken line of Dukes of Rutland for nearly 1000 years. James Wyatt, the iconic architect, designed the remodelled Castle built between 1801-1832 for the 5th Duke and Duchess of Rutland. Today, Belvoir Castle is said to be one of the finest examples of Regency architecture globally.

About the Host:

Emma Rutland, The Duchess of Rutland, did not always stride the halls of stately homes. Born Emma Watkins, the Duchess grew up the daughter of a Quaker farmer, in the Welsh marsh countryside. She trained as an opera singer in the Guildhall School of Music, and worked as a successful interior designer before meeting her future husband David Manners, the 11th Duke of Rutland, at a dinner party. Their marriage in 1992 would transform Emma Watkins into the 11th Duchess of Rutland. Join The Duchess as she embarks on a wonderful journey through time, to learn more about the incredible homes that have defined Great Britain and, most importantly, meet the other extraordinary women who work tirelessly behind their doors to preserve their history and magic for future generations.

Resources:

https://www.belvoircastle.com/

https://www.onefineplay.com/

https://www.emmaduchessrutland.com/

https://www.belvoircastle.com/cinderella-at-belvoir/

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