Natasha Rickman directs Richard II at Guildford Shakespeare Company. Playing until February 25th.
Wild parties in Whitehall.
Cruel drinking games in private members clubs.
A slaughtered pig’s head.
A culture of entitled misogyny... this is the court of Richard II.
Director Natasha Rickman (⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Prince, Southwark Playhouse) brings Shakespeare’s tragedy bang up to date in this politically charged new production.
In 2023, Richard II has never been more urgent:
The nation’s leadership changes on a pin. A war rages in Europe as the country continues to reel from an international pandemic. Recent events of a workforce demanding their worth be acknowledged have been compounded by disastrous taxation demands. Amidst this chaos, those in charge ride roughshod over established laws, plotting their way to power. Sound familiar?
Natasha "I'm delighted to be directing Richard II for GSC next year. It's a play examining power and politics, and is asking some very current questions about leadership and democracy. We are inviting audiences to travel with us through raucous members clubs, mahogany offices and palace gardens. There is alot of wit and nuance in the characters, and I can't wait to share this story with audiences, and be part of the conversation it invites."
