Entering the theatre in the midst of a party it was clear that this was going to be an energetic play. As the audience settled into the seats and began to clap along with those dancing onstage I sensed that we were all in for an enjoyable evening. The dancing stopped as the play began but the energy never left the stage.
Thea Beyleveld drew the audience into Richard’s evil mind immediately, with her all-important opening speech showing her prowess as an actress.
To purposefully cast one of Shakespeare’s most well-known male characters as a woman was a brave step by Director Chris Warren and one that I feel paid off. The aim was, obviously, to see if changing the sex of this classic villain changed the mood of the play. What we soon see however, is that even as a woman, Richard is vengeful and scheming and will let nothing stand in the way of her ultimate goal of becoming King.
For those unfamiliar with the play, Richard is the younger ‘brother’ of King Edward. Bitter over her physical shortcomings, she resents Edward’s power and plots to use her superior intelligence to take the throne. By manipulating those around her, she cuts a bloody path to the crown, leaving behind a trail of murder and sorrow.
Chris Warren deserves kudos for having the confidence to make such a big change to such an established work. Seeing Richard as a woman, definitely added a new and exciting dynamic whilst still maintaining the air of intrigue which is the play’s biggest strength.
The gender-swap was surrounded by some other interesting directorial decisions; particularly the use of puppets to play the Duke of York and his brother, a comic moment not usually seen in Richard III and one which added yet another layer.
Keeping focus on the story by using a minimalistic set, Chris has really emphasised the skill of the actors, who, in turn, brought to life the beauty of Shakespeare’s text. Notable performances were Laura Hymers as Lady Anne, whose anguish and despair served to highlight Richard’s evil, and Doug Baker as Hastings, providing comic relief and a few laughs amongst the audience. Ben Waring as Buckinghamshire, Sarah Ratner as Queen Elizabeth and Judith Barbeler as Queen Margaret also acquitted themselves well.
Refreshing a well-trodden play is never an easy task but, with a simple twist and a strong cast, Chris Warren has succeeded admirably. No discontent here…
