Review: Richard III
Richard III is one of Shakespeare’s classic tragedies that depicts the life and subsequent short reign of King Richard III. This Red Rose Production takes the classic text from the Bard, and tackles this play full on.
Writer and Director, Joanna Carrick has a very special way of tackling Shakespeare’s works and this performance of Richard III is no different, with the opening line, “Now is the winter of our discontent. Made glorious summer by this sun of York” coming from a radio in the form of a news bulletin.
A simple set, with 1970s style wallpaper, and pictures of the Royal Family from the last century, is the perfect backdrop for the action, with the small cast of just four taking on multiple characters with ease.
Lawrence Russell’s portrayal of Richard III is just brilliant, with great balance of humour and angst; you really want to fall in love with the villain, although you know that you shouldn’t.
Edward Day takes on a multitude of the play’s characters, however he makes for one of the best Queen Elizabeth’s ever seen – all hair and red coat…
Rachael McCormick displays great skill with her knack of accents which helps distinguish the many and varied characters she portrays. Red Rose Chain regular Kirsty Thorpe makes for the perfect grieving Lady Anne, as well as other characters.
Overall this production of Richard III is superb, with full on action from the start, great acting and the odd unexpected surprise along the way. Where else would you get classic Shakespeare mixed with telephones, a teddy bear, snakes and ladders, umbrellas and typewriters?
Red Rose Chain will be performing Richard III at the Avenue Theatre, Ipswich until Saturday 4th June. To book tickets visit www.redrosechain.com or telephone 01473 603388.
This is not any Shakespeare – This is RED ROSE SHAKESPEARE!
• Wendy Cook – Ipswich24 Magazine
• Photos Bill Jackson