This year’s offering from the extremely talented Slade Wolfe team is a two-hander focusing on Richard III, everyone’s favourite villain. In Lexi Wolfe and Adam Phelan’s hands, however, we see a very different take on Richard III which is both fascinating and engaging and, as presented by this creative team, makes wonderful sense as a hypothesis.
Whether you are a Shakespeare fan, or simply interested in different interpretations of historical figures, Lexi Wolfe’s writing cleverly, and with much thought and dedication to preserving the tone of Shakespeare’s original work, brings us into the world of a Richard III who cares for others. This is not the typical interpretation of the King but, with the journey that Richard III goes through onstage, together with the helpful précis of scenes in the handout, we see how he develops and grows both as a man and as a leader.
Lexi Wolfe portrays a variety of figures opposite Adam Phelan’s Richard III, and rises to the challenge magnificently. Wolfe’s definition in voice, physicality and personality between the different figures is clear: she is a master at her art. This is not simply a matter of costume change: Wolfe embodies these characters fully, which is no mean feat, and demonstrates her exceptional skill with the text. Phelan has the (slightly) easier task of portraying Richard III throughout as a man of thought, rather than the king of devious means as we have expected to see him. It is to his credit – and to the skill of Wolfe’s nuanced writing – that we believe him. While the different scenes take a little time to settle in for the audience, by the time the marriage scene arrives, we have caught up.
The exceptionally gifted Slade Wolfe team are clearly aficionados of the Bard and with their prowess at challenging assumptions about Shakespeare’s characters, this show is a must-see for both Shakespeare experts and novices alike: you will not be disappointed.
Show Time: 18:05
theSpaceTriplex
2–24 Aug (not 11)
Ticket prices: £10.00-£12.00 (£8.00-£10.00)
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/after-shakespeare-richard-iii
Accessible entry: Wheelchair Access - level access via main entrance using a ramp; Wheelchair access type: Level Access, Lift (Platform Lift); Wheelchair Accessible Toilets; Stairs: Information not supplied; Age: 12+ (Guideline)