Theater News

Actors' Shakespeare Project Set for Richard III

Opening night is set for February 10.

The Actors' Shakespeare Project production of William Shakespeare's Richard III begins performances tonight at Swedenborg Chapel ahead of an opening set for February 10.

Robert Walsh directs the production, described as follows: "In Richard III, the titular character spares no time revealing himself as a cunning, charismatic, and heartless tyrant who will stop at nothing to secure England's crown. The end of the civil Wars of the Roses promises a period of peace for the nation, until the death of Richard’s newly crowned brother, Edward IV. Seizing opportunity, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, schemes to become king by seduction, betrayal, and any means necessary. Twisted inside and out by discontent, and ruthless in removing anyone he deems obstacles to the throne, Richard hurtles the court and the country farther into moral decline and military destruction. Ultimately, his abuse of power sets the stage for a new hero to rescue England, and a new house to reign."

Paula Plum, Mara Sidmore, Michael Forden Walker, Jennie Israel, and Steven Barkhimer star in William Shakespeare's Richard III, directed by Robert Walsh for Actors' Shakespeare Project.
Paula Plum, Mara Sidmore, Michael Forden Walker, Jennie Israel, and Steven Barkhimer star in William Shakespeare's Richard III, directed by Robert Walsh for Actors' Shakespeare Project.
(© Nile Scott Shots)

Featured in the cast are Steven Barkhimer (Richard III, Murderer 2, Duchess of York), Jennie Israel (Margaret, Brackenbury, King Edward, Ratcliff), Paula Plum (Queen Elizabeth, Murderer 1, Lord Cardinal, Young Duke of York, Norfolk), Mara Sidmore (Anne, Catesby, Grey, Duchess of York), Michael Forden Walker (Buckingham, Clarence, Stanley), and Deaon Griffin-Pressley (Hastings, Richmond, Tyrell).

The production team includes Deb Sullivan (lighting design), Miranda Kau Giurleo (costume design), Abby Shenker (properties design), and Lindsay Colleli (movement director). Marsha Smith is the stage manager.

Performances continue through March 11.

For tickets and more information, click here.