The Herbal Bed is a play by Peter Whelan, written specifically for the Royal Shakespeare Company.
During 1997 the play had a successful run at the Duchess Theatre in London's West End. The leading role of John Hall was played by Lorcan Cranitch. In 1998, a NYC production played at the Eugene O'Neill Theater with an all-American cast, including Armand Schultz (Rafe), Tuck Milligan (John), and Laila Robins (Susanna). The NYC production was directed by Michael Attenborough.
The play is set in the year 1613 and is about Susanna Hall, daughter of William Shakespeare, who is accused of adultery with Rafe Smith. Her husband, Dr John Hall, is suspicious of their relationship, but stands up for his wife when she takes her accuser to court for slander.