Jamie Rowe, Copy Editor
Ever wonder how “Dick” could be a nickname for Richard? The Long Beach Shakespeare Company’s production of Richard III could give you the answer.
As with many of William Shakespeare’s histories, the tale of Richard of Gloucester involves intrigue, murder and the drive to gain power. On top of being the youngest of four brothers, Richard is the last in line for the crown of England, but that certainly won’t stop him from scheming to become king. Throughout the play he kills friend, foe and family to achieve his goals, so don’t get attached to any one character.
To gain more insight, be sure to read the program’s historical synopsis of the events behind Richard ascending to the throne. While it is not necessary to understand the history, it certainly lends itself to a better understanding of the play’s nuances as Shakespeare so loved including.
Richard, as Shakespeare presents him, is a terribly ugly man with a hunchback. Some say his physical appearance is a mirror into his dark and twisted soul. The set reflects this sinister personality and its future actions of deceit, as well. Matthew McCallum really brings Richard to life. He shows him as the angry, mean, maniacal little man he is. Artistic Director Helen Borgers made the right choice in having McCallum stand upright and dance around when Richard was alone on stage and having him hunched over, acting feeble and childlike to dissemble his true nature around others.
Once again, Lauren Velasco demonstrates her abilities as Edward, prince of Wales. Her brother, Julian, also gives an amazing performance as Richard, duke of York (not to be confused with his Uncle Richard of Gloucester). These two actors have long, successful careers ahead of them.
Watch for the crazy, yet prophetic, Queen Margaret (Robyn Solovei Hendricks). She is harsh, yet speaks the truth. If you are at all lost by the goings on of the play, listen to her words. She is the perfect guide to what has happened and what will happen, if you can get past the iambic pentameter.
Another key actress is Mary Morales as Lady Anne, widow to Richard’s brother and Richard’s first wife. As the grieving widow, she laments the loss of her devoted husband, but as Richard woos her, we see her anger, fear and eventual resignation to his amorous desires.
The best seats in the house are certainly the front row, which also happens to be the edge of the stage. If you’re as lucky as I was, Richard just might sit next to you.
While this is a three-hour long play, with two 10-minute intermissions included (LBSC is kind enough to provide refreshments for a small donation), the time zips by as the audience eagerly awaits the next twist in the plot and how the next victim will die.
Richard III runs until Saturday, June 16. Performances are at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $15 general, $10 students. Contact the box office at (562) 997-1494 or go online to www.lbshakespeare.org. The Long Beach Shakespeare Company is located in the Richard Goad Theater at 4250 Atlantic Avenue in Long Beach.
