RICHARD II – Written by William Shakespeare; Directed by Tim Orr. Produced by the Colorado Shakespeare Festival (Roe Green Theatre, CU campus, Boulder) through August 10. Tickets available at 303-492-8008 or cupresents@colorado.edu.
If you think about it, in 1595 when Shakespeare was writing about Richard II who reigned from 1377 to 1399 two hundred years in the past, it is much the same as someone – say Lin Manuel Miranda – today writing about James Madison (or his contemporary Alexander Hamilton) who was the American President 200 years ago. Even though Shakespeare’s Queen from the House of Windsor was not directly related to Richard II of the House of Lancaster, Shakespeare did not include the abdication scene (during which Richard is forced to give up his throne) until after the death of his Queen. No one likes to be reminded they can be replaced. By the same token, Queen Elizabeth II had a strong appreciation for Shakespeare and is actually the Great-Great-Great-Great-Granddaughter of Richard II – AND – it is rumoured that she also greatly enjoyed HAMILTON.
Richard had the reputation of being a petulant, extravagant, and foolhardy monarch. He was coronated when his older brother (second to the throne), his father (first in line to the throne), and his grandfather (on the throne) all died, leaving him the only heir – at ten years of age. In the second decade of his life, he was the titular king but was governed by a Council of Lords who made the decisions. Who wouldn’t chaff under those restrictions? Finally, at 21, he came into his power and began the reign of manipulation, playing those same Lords against each other for revenge. He gave men power and then took it away. He entered into foolish battles with his own subjects and then had to back down, blaming someone else for his defeat. He turned his most trusted councilors against him with his thoughtless extravagance and disregard for his subjects. Of course, it all backfired on him eventually and he was imprisoned by the very men he had blackmailed in the past. Hmmmmm. . . How ‘bout that?!
This cast told this tale with alacrity and confidence. The shifting loyalties were easy to follow. The fate of Richard, from powerful arrogance to humble prisoner, is both satisfying and sorrowful. Kevin Rich as Richard makes a meaningful statement regarding the destiny of arrogant monarchs. The company of actors supported his downfall, playing multiple parts with clarity.
The costumes designed by Sarah Zim and constructed by the multi-talented ladies of the costume shop were outstanding. The various Houses of Lords are designated by banners and armaments to create a free-flowing change of side.
While the histories are not many people’s favorite Shakespearean adventures, there are lessons to be learned and past mistakes to be examined in this tale of royalty’s loss of grace.
A WOW factor of 8.25!!