Seizing another opportunity to put their particular slant on a dramatic text, theatre company ‘We are Animate’, opted to produce a contemporary version of one of Shakespeare’s lesser mentioned historical plays, thereby bringing to audiences their unique version of Richard II, writes Carolyn Hart Taylor.
Wordiness is expected when confronted with any Shakespearean play, and given the small size of the Brockley Jack venue, the dialogue encompasses. But that I feel is the point!
Situated in the Palace of Westminster, the spotlight on England’s King Richard II’s self-obsession and desire for power coupled with governmental ineptitude and treasonable acts guarantee plenty of debate. Opting for a thrust stage, audience members surround the action, cleverly transporting us to the position of parliament members, and drawing our attention to the timeless injustices that make this contemporary version viable.
The King (Michael Rivers) and his court members strut upon the stage donning feminine silk pyjama suits and white leather loafers whilst voguing to the King’s command, revealing the versatility in using physical theatre to reinforce key themes, whilst encouraging us to consider the temporal nature of power ill-used.
Flashes of red from lipstick-wearing Aumerle (Harriet Barrow) and the fringed platform pepper the set, alerting us to imminent bloodshed. It arrives via a complex King, whose mercurial nature is both merciless and childlike, challenging traditionally masculine ideals. Revealing this alternative monarch prompts consideration of human qualities and leadership above gender expectations.
Clashes of power arrive with Richard’s cousin Henry Bolingbroke: Duke of Hereford (Fleur De Wit), a leader capable of calm reason and forgiveness. When pardoning treacherous Aumerle, we’re shown a more tolerant option.
Contemporary music plays, so with the lyrics to Dirty Rich playing alongside Shakespearean verse, it nods directly to both historic and current injustices. And while seducing audiences with their beautifully turned-out appearances, characters alert us of our own susceptibility to be deceived by the wealthy and powerful.
Later a humiliated King is dragged on in his underwear and subjected to calls for his crown, thereupon exposing the need for a scapegoat despite government failings.
A contemporary perspective definitely worth experiencing.
Brockley Jack Studio Theatre, 410 Brockley Road, London, SE4 2DH until March 5th. Time: 7.30pm. Admission: £16, £14.
Box office: www.brockleyjack.co.uk or 0333 666 3366 (£1.80 fee for phone bookings only)