I don't know about you, but I think Helen Mirren is more than a queen; she's a goddess. But in the live National Theatre broadcast of The Audience this week — at Town Hall Theater in Middlebury — she is indeed playing Queen Elizabeth II. Word has it, Mirren is stunning, and I'm not surprised.

Actually, the show isn't "live" from across the pond this time — The Audience played at THT in June to rave reviews and sold-out shows. This week's two encore performances are literally back by popular demand.

Peter Morgan's play, which has been a huge hit in London, is structured as a series of "audiences" the Queen holds with a series of prime ministers who have served during her long reign. Who remembers John Major?

The Audience will be screened at 1 and 7 p.m. at THT in Middlebury. But that's not all! In honor of the occasion, the Middlebury Inn will be serving a British-style high tea after the 1 p.m. showing. Plan on a few extra squats to work off that clotted cream and trifle, mates.

Tickets for both The Audience ($17) and the high tea ($15) are available through the THT box office at 382-9222 or online.