With an explosion of tarmac, Leicester City Car park erupts and Richard III crashes from his lost tomb to meet the character who has ruined his reputation… History.
Best-selling historical author Philippa Gregory will make her playwriting debut at Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot, Liverpool, with Richard, My Richard – an innovative new stage play inspired by Shakespeare’s Richard III.
A masterful and internationally renowned storyteller, Philippa’s foray into the realm of theatre brings to life a captivating narrative that unravels the complex persona of Richard III - one of history’s most twisted and enigmatic characters; and weaves a passionate, tender portrait of man in his time, surrounded by the women who determine his fate.
Shakespeare North Playhouse strives to spark debate and be bold with storytelling, and Phillipa’s unique perspective challenges Shakespeare’s Richard III, questioning conventional beliefs, reinterpreting the car-park king’s story, and inviting audiences to question history’s reliability.
Philippa Gregory said: “I was inspired to write this play after having the privilege to attend the internment of Richard lll at Leicester.
“I wanted to write a play about the real Richard and the people, especially the influential women, around him. Then the most important character walked into the play - History - who in an absent-minded moment gave us such a dark picture of the king whose motto was loyalty and whose passion was chivalry.”
The full cast of the production has recently been announced and includes Kyle Rowe (The Devil’s Hour - Amazon Prime, Sexy Beast - Paramount+) as Richard and Tom Kanji (Julius Caesar - Royal Shakespeare Theatre/UK Tour, Private Peaceful - UK Tour) as History.
This new play will captivate audiences and leave them with a deeper appreciation of the complexities of history. Richard, My Richard promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the power of storytelling and its ability to reshape the past.
Richard, My Richard will play at Shakespeare North Playhouse from 8th to 30th March 2024. Group bookings of 10+ benefit from a 10% discount. Philippa Gregory will lead a post-show discussion at Shakespeare North Playhouse on Tuesday 19th March following the evening performance.
For more information, contact: groups@shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk or visit shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk
Richard, My Richard is produced by Shakespeare Playhouse North and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, in association with Daniel Schumann.
