A right royal triumph of theatre
THE BLOOD OF KINGS THEATREINQ PRODUCTION ADAPTED AND DIRECTED BY TERRI BRABON
REVIEW BY TREVOR KEELING
IT IS ambitious, powerful, compelling, riveting and above all it is yet again a fine example of the kind of work that our extraordinary Townsville theatre company, Theatreinq, produces.
I must admit that when I first learnt that director Teri Brabon had intended to adapt a selection of Shakespeare’s historical plays (he wrote a total of 10) to present as a trilogy to celebrate Theatreinq’s 10th anniversary, it seemed something of a daunting prospect.
But why should I have worried? This was clearly a project of the heart for her, and she has an innate ability to create a world into which we are compulsively drawn. She always combines an infallible director’s instincts with an intense understanding of text, character delineation and overall pace, so why should anything be different?
For this seamless production she has adapted four of Shakespeare’s plays – Richard II, Henry IV (Pts I &
II) and part of Henry V to produce this epic adaptation. Despite its total of three hours’ running time, never was one at any time anything but drawn into this captivating world, which gives insight into the processes of medieval politics.
Against a simple set dominated overhead by an enormous medieval depiction of the crucifixion, the capacity audience was introduced to context of the world through a brilliantly-conceived pageant depicting the seven sons of King of England, Edward III. This effectively set the scene for struggles for the crown with the plotting, banishment, bloody feuding, treachery and retribution that characterised the reigns of his two successors, Richard II and Henry IV – preparing for the reign of Henry V, widely mythologised to be the perfect king despite a misspent youth.
Playing Richard II, the last of the Plantagenet kings who inherited the throne at the age of 10, was James Raggatt. A finely etched performance, he played the somewhat ineffectual king with a distracted air. His monologue while imprisoned in Pontefract Castle was a dramatic highlight.
Usurping the throne from his cousin was Henry IV (Brendan O’connor), the first Lancastrian King whose reign was characterised by plots, rebellions and assassination attempts. Always a mesmerising actor, O’connor played this king with authority and power, while Joseph Raggatt as Prince Hal (Henry V) demonstrated his considerable talent with an incisive and energetic portrayal.
Central to the Henry IV plays is the character of fat and vain Falstaff (John Goodson). Here was a superlative comic performance, played with revelry, vigour and relish. Equally outstanding and matching him every step of the way was Arminelle Fleming as Mistress Quickly. Their Act 2 scenes provided much comic relief to the overarching serious tone which inhabits Shakespeare’s historical plays.
The large ensemble was directed with customary attention to detail and energy with interesting characterisations given to the most minor of characters. Of particular note were John Robertson in dual roles of John of Gaunt and the Earl of Northumberland; Anna Vella-sams as Duchess of York and an impressive cast of younger actors including Riley Johnston, Hollie Sams (as Richard
II’S child bride, Isabella) and Hunter Sams.
• The Blood of Kings continues until March 7 at C2, Townsville
Civic Theatre. Several shows already sold out. Book at www.trybooking.com