As the show goes on this interpretation seems to battle against Shakespeare’s play. But on the other hand the addition by drawing on the humour can also take away some of the necessary darkness and Richard’s increasing obsession with control and power as well as the main outlook the main interpretation of why Richard goes down the path he does. It is clear throughout, this is a production that is trying to make it accessible to everyone – and in many ways it does succeed. (c)Manuel HarlanĪside from Henry VIII, one of the monarchs who has fascinated me the most is Richard III – was he villain as much as he was painted? How much involvement did he have in the disappearance of the two princes? or was he judged in a bad light because of his appearance alone? In Adjoa Andoh’s refreshing but slightly muddled new take on Shakespeare’s play – she examines the character as an outsider who wants his own fair chance at life but of course uses increasingly sinister approaches in his attempt to fit in with his family.Īdjoa’s production has an almost folksy vibe to it that brings to mind another Shakespeare play – A Midsummer Night’s Dream, through Amelia Jane Hankin’s beautiful set design and Maybelle Laye’s costumes there is a feeling of lightness and attention to detail to the production that is surprising in contrast to other versions of the play I have seen. Adjoa Andoh gives a towering performance in the title role – but the production feels a touch muddled.

Richard iii rose theatre