A tale of ambition and manipulation, Richard III charts the rise of Richard, Duke of Gloucester, as he deceives and murders anyone who stands in his path to becoming King. Reflecting on her own childhood in rural England in the 1960s, Adjoa Andoh sets out to explore how pathologising the body and ascribing evil intent due to a person's physical appearance can wear away at the soul.
She says, 'My Richard is set apart from his family and his peers and ascribed a hateful personality reflecting the prejudice of the society around him. This fresh staging asks the question: what happens when the person who is punched down upon, punches up?'
Kingston,
London,
KT1 1HL,
Kingston
People also ask :
Who was Richard III?
Richard III was a king of England who reigned from 1483 to 1485. He was the last monarch of the House of York and the last Plantagenet king. Richard III is known for his controversial reign, which was marked by political turmoil and violence.
What is the historical context of "Richard III"?
"Richard III" is set in the late 15th century, a period known as the Wars of the Roses, which was marked by a series of civil wars between two rival branches of the royal family, the House of Lancaster and the House of York. The play was written during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, who was a descendant of the Tudor dynasty that emerged victorious in the Wars of the Roses.
What are some of the major themes of "Richard III"?
"Richard III" explores themes such as power, politics, ambition, betrayal, and the nature of evil. The play also deals with the question of divine providence and the role of fate in human affairs.
How is Richard III portrayed in the play?
Richard III is portrayed as a complex and multi-dimensional character, who is both charming and charismatic, as well as ruthless and manipulative. He is shown to be a master of deception and intrigue, who will stop at nothing to achieve his ambition of becoming king.
What is the significance of the ending of "Richard III"?
The ending of "Richard III" is significant because it marks the downfall of the title character and the end of the Wars of the Roses. The play ends with the ascension of Henry Tudor, who becomes King Henry VII and establishes the Tudor dynasty, which ruled England for over a century. The play also raises questions about the legitimacy of power and the role of divine justice in history.