Richard II





By William Wolf
Wolf's Entertainment Guide
Fall 2000




Serious theatergoers should try not to miss the very special performance by Ralph Fiennes in Shakespeare's "Richard II," being presented in a limited run at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in repertory with his performance in the Bard's "Coriolanus" from Sept. 6-Oct. 1. I haven't seen him in "Coriolanus," but I did preview his "Richard II" when it was done in London (see London Theater Report 2000 in the Special Reports section). Fiennes skillfully explores the various layers of Shakespeare's characterization of Richard and captures the emotional pain as he fights to hold power yet faces the political reality of defeat. Fiennes's performance is underlined by an especially intelligent approach to the character that heightens the emotional aspects while also addressing the sweep of history engulfing him. His interpretation of the role is further evidence of what a distinguished actor he has become.

Of course, Shakespeare's work would lack power of there were not a worthy Henry Bolingbroke. Fortunately, Linus Roache, who played the role n London, is also in the Almeida Theatre Company's presentation at BAM. Roache taps into the nuances of the part as King Richards's adversary and the future King Henry IV. This is Roache's New York stage debut.

At the BAM Harvey Theater, 641 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, $25-$75. Phone: 718-636-4100.



 

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