THE PLAYER KINGS Part 1 & Part 2 Shakespeare & Marlowe’s History Cycle

Last night I went to part 1 of the Player Kings. I hadn't really paid much attention to what it was and thought it was just the main speeches out of the Henry's and Richards of Shakespeare by the wonderful Sport for Jove company, who did the best production of Taming of the Shrew I've ever seen.

However, as the course of the night rolled on, watching the recognisable decades of social upheaval in the 50's through to 80's, I realise of course where (& who) Richard III will be. Glancing at the website, it was confirmed "the story glances backward to the journey from Richard II to Richard III, in order to thrust our gaze forward to how political systems collapse and societies devour their own potential."

This is an ambitious project. condensing 6 plays into two nights, with a large ensemble cast, requiring versatility of both skill and visual imagery. It's engaging and entertaining. I also enjoyed recognising moments and characters in our living history (as well as the obvious events featured in the play).

The live music is a lovely touch, and is used artistically both in song and background ambiance or heightening the impact of war. The use of film and projection is also a nice touch, and the space is more physical than a normal theatrical staging. There is even some hilarious audience participation. It feels a little more like the Globe theatre than the Seymour Centre is.

For a Shakespeare production (of sorts) there is nothing usual about this, in concept or execution.

On a personal note, what I like about this most, is while we all know Henry IV and Richard III very well, the other Henry plays (and Richard II) I could watch like a normal play, for the story, as I didn't know what would happen. It's a lovely experience to engage in Shakespeare performances on that level (it helps my English history of that period is a little rusty too). When you are watching events unfold rather than waiting for speeches to be made, it's a very different emotional experience. You are judging the characters on their deeds, and at times this is surprising.

If you can get tickets, it is worth going to. Part 1 ran for 5 hours, so if you do both in a day, you will be in the theatre for 10 hours or so. I am glad we spaced ours out, but eager to see the finale in a week's time.

Tickets are available here. I don't know if it's touring, but for your sake, I hope that it is.

That's #WBOYC - what have you been up to?