Late Saturday evening I stumbled across some information about a production of Richard II produced by the Royal Shakespeare Company. The RSC's Richard II was produced in 2013 and played in Stratford-Upon-Avon and London. I had heard wonderful things about this production and even saw photos from the show on posters in the tube stations. What I didn't realize is the RSC was presenting an encore of this production over the holiday season here in London. And today, Sunday, was the final performance. What made this production of Richard II even more interesting was David Tennant was reprising his role as Richard II. After spending so much time with Dr. Who this past month, I really wanted to see Tennant play Richard. But the last show, surely a ticket would be difficult to obtain at such late notice. As expected, the listing on the RSC website said "sold out". However, there was a glimmer of hope when I read that a few seats were to be released for sale the morning of the show. Sure enough, in the morning, I was able to book a second row seat. Thrilled!
In London, the RSC presents at the Barbican Centre. This is an arts complex that includes a concert hall, cinema, library, exhibits and the theatre. The Barbican was opened in 1982 by The Queen and is Europe's largest multi-arts venue. It is a prime example of Brutalist architecture that was popular from the 50's to mid-70s.
At 2pm the matinee began and I was transported to medieval England where trouble stirred in the court of Richard II. Richard II was King of England from 1377 to 1399 when he was deposed and his cousin, Henry IV, took his crown. Shakespeare's accounting of the how and why this happened may not be historically accurate according to many scholars. Shakespeare is known to use a bit of creative license in his history plays. If you are looking for facts, try elsewhere but if you want an exciting story, Shakespeare has it covered!
The production was nothing short of fantastic. The pace clipped along, the text was clear and the story easy to follow. All design elements were well executed and served the play and performers without distraction. The live music was a magical addition with trumpets announcing royal entrances and three female voices singing with a purity that was sunlight for the ears. And the company of actors, brilliant. The sense of ensemble was strong and all glided through their parts with clear understanding of their characters and comfort with the language. It was a special treat to see Julian Glover play John of Gaunt. Glover has had a long and distinguished career on both stage and screen and is regarded with much esteem in the world of theatre.
But what about Tennant Melanie?! Well, the rumors are all true. He was nothing short of extraordinary. Richard II is not really considered a good guy. Many of his actions are questionable if not deplorable. Tennant found a complex truth to Richard with multiple, well developed dimensions that honored his regality while still rendering him an utterly, tragically, flawed human being. My heart broke for Tennant's Richard and I was very sad to see him go. I wanted him to stay right there on that throne and rule happily ever after, even if he was a jerk sometimes. Alas, 'twas not to be. *sigh*
Seeing Richard II today was an absolute inspiration and will provide a nice wind in my sails to kick off the week. The winter break is over and it is back to class and classmates tomorrow morning at ye ole Central School. I adored every second of my holiday and feel very much refreshed. But, my excitement over my upcoming placements and projects spurs me on and I look forward to getting started.
I will keep you posted! In the meantime, check out some Shakespeare, either on stage or on your screen!
Take care!
-m
David Tennant in Richard II at the RSC
photo from http://www.theguardian.com
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