Richard III (A Review)

I've just gotten back from Torrey Theatre's production of Shakespeare's Richard III and (for what it's worth) here's my review:

It's the first time that Torrey has used this "space" as one cast member remarked and it certainly not the only thing that's new in this remarkable production. The production is ostensibly an adaptation of Shakespeare's original. I don't wish to spoil all the ways in which they present the play, but let's just say that they had no qualms about re-ordering the sequence and even who speaks which lines. The result is a very interesting work that feels more like a commentary than an actual performance. As always, there's no complaint here about the acting. Whatever else Torrey does, they have always been highly consistent in the quality which they present on stage. The production's stated aim is to take full advantage of the Theatre. As a cast member stated, "We wanted to take everything that is unique to theatre and capitalize on those aspects. For example, the use of the body, Theatre is one of the only art forms that uses the body so totally in order to communicate and we did our best to bring that out in this performance" (That was a paraphrase). Two things I found especially noteworthy, the use of space in this production is very unique. The Collegium in which the play is produced is actually Biola's commuter lounge. There is no raised stage and the actors get within inches of the audience. It's a much more immersive experience. Second, this is definitely a production where you have to know Richard III at least fairly well (Meaning you should have read the play at least twice). I recommend watching it, but with the caution that to fully appreciate it, you need to at least read the original because it really is an adaptation. Go watch it, and when you're done, let's talk.