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Evil "Richard" is Chillingly GoodBy Gary LinehanUnion-Democrat, June 27, 2002 First of all, Michael Janes gives a performance for the ages in the title role of Murphys Creek Theatre's "Richard III." After that, the audience must decide for themselves how this production will rank in the litany of past and future stagings. The acting is not in question, and neither are the technical elements. It is the interpretation that may thrill some and have others reaching for their swords. Unquestionably bold, this "Richard III," directed by Arturo Catricala, is set in an indeterminable time, flowing between the traditional and the contemporary. Costumes are drawn from virtually every century since the play was written and the accompanying music ranges from James Brown to "The Last Temptation of Christ." The music, paradoxically, is both appropriate and inappropriate at the same time. Bringing to mind the technique used in the film "Moulin Rouge," songs from one era are paired with action from another, and only the viewer can judge the appeal. When Richard is crowned king, a snippet from a 1960s pop song is used to reinforce his delight. The words are perfect, but considering the murders Richard has committed to gain the throne, such levity can also be jarring. Besides the music and costuming, Catricala has infused this production with other twists sure to invite two sides of discussion. One involves two brief but daring - even audacious - scenes of sexual intensity. Another has to do with the severed head of Lord Hastings, which is carried on stage true to script, but is treated almost as a comic prop, so much so that more than one viewer thought it would be tossed into the audience at the end of the scene. "Richard III" is a complicated drama with a large and confusing cast of characters. Even a scorecard would be next to worthless since almost everyone answers to a first name, last name and changing title. Richard, for instance, is the Duke of Gloucester, a Plantagenet family member and King Richard III upon his coronation. Edward, son of King Edward IV, is the Prince of Wales and later King Edward V. Henry Tudor, the Earl of Richmond, later becomes King Henry VII. There is even another Richard, the Duke of York. The play is taxing in its length as well, running a solid three hours. But we're so used to forgiving insignificant works by saying "It's not Shakespeare" that we forget the real thing takes some work. What is beyond dispute is the quality of acting that brings Shakespeare's tragedy to brilliant life. Leading the charge is Equity actor and Harvard Theater Institute graduate Michael Janes as the jealous, misshapen duke bent on claiming the throne of England by plotting, deceiving and killing. Janes is flawless in the role, even overcoming an uncooperative cape on opening night with good humor and deft ad-libbing. He has the uncommon skill to be completely convincing in both transparent falsity -- as when he persuades Lady Anne to many him even after confessing he has killed her husband and father -- and instant mockery of those he succeeds in swaying. He also embodies Richard's physical imperfections and makes them appear so natural that is is difficult to envision hem walking normally off-stage. Other cast members are Tedi Joseph, David Abad, Amy Chantel, Stephen Daly, Sheila Doyle, Sarah Grimes-Emmons, Todd Thomas, Mark Leyva, Jeremy Forbing, Michael Mager, Brian Livingston, Tom Vannucci, Hilary Schwartz, Graham Scott Green, Alex Stoicheff, Lily Stoicheff and Stephen Mitchell Brookins. All provide outstanding support, with a special bow to Sheila Doyle as the curse-spewing Margaret, distinguishing herself as the region's most improved actress. So brush up your Shakespeare and get out to the Stevenot Winery amphitheatre before the play closes. For reservations, call 877-888-6282. |
 Murphys Creek TheatreP.O. Box 603, Murphys, CA 95247 (209) 728-8422 info@murphyscreektheatre.org |
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