In March 2010 the Canberra Richardians gathered to attend a small local company (Everyman) production of the Shakespearean play Richard III.  This was performed in a small ‘workshop’ space in the Courtyard Theatre.  There were tiered stands for seating with a red carpet between the two stands.  The actors worked on this carpet.

One member of the group was aware that the stands were labelled with red and white roses.  We had to be careful to make sure we were sitting on the correct side!  The actors at times directly worked or appealed to their side.  The actors were costumed very simply in white, adding accessories to indicate the character they were playing.  The actor playing Richard (Duncan Ley) became more and more covered in ‘blood’ as the play developed.

To see the play performed at such close range magnifies the already powerful drama.  The aim of this production was to highlight the role of the women.  From my perspective this was achieved.

The four of us were really pleased that we had picked up on this production and been able to attend together.  I think we all came away with a better understanding of why the play has coloured people’s perception of Richard III so successfully.

Tags: Richard III, Shakespeare