The Shakespeare Theatre Company is presenting “Richard the Third” play directed by David Muse from February 5 through March 10 at Sidney Harman Hall.
Richard the Third is a classic tale of a very ambitious man who can go to any extent to take the crown of England. More than the power grab, the play also shows how others can be influenced and be willing to side with a tyrannical leader.
“Shakespeare’s mesmerizing chronicle of the megalomaniac’s rampage to the throne remains an irresistible study of villainy and of our alarming addiction to its exploits,” notes the event brief.
The cast is led by Matthew Rauch (Cinemax’s Banshee, Broadway’s Junk, The Merchant of Venice) among other D.C. favorites.
According to director David Muse, the play is about “a heartless man, a con artist, a man obsessed with winning and power, a misogynist, a spinner of news and misinformation, a man who thrives by beating others, a man who uses and discards people.”
“It’s about how a country responds to a leader like this. We watch people negotiate with their own mortality, align themselves with power and resist secretly if at all,” Muse added.
Shakespeare’s mesmerizing chronicle of Richard III's rampage to the throne remains an irresistible study of villainy. Featuring a cast of D.C. favorites, & directed by David Muse, this show at @ShakespeareinDC is one you just can't miss! Get tickets now! https://t.co/5qxNu2ShvO pic.twitter.com/ezhwWTuao8
— DC Metro Theater Arts (@DCMTheaterArts) January 30, 2019
“It’s about the inescapable magnetism of a certain brand of vileness, our inability to resist being drawn in, the danger of manipulation on a massive scale,” he said.
The play includes strobe lights, haze and use of herbal cigarettes. Tickets are priced $44-$118 and can be purchased here.
Daybreaker DC’s ‘Dance Dance Resolution 2019’ at Howard Theatre on January 17