THE TRAGEDY OF
RICHARD III
Adapted from the original Shakespeare classic by Michael Patrick and Oisín Kearney, this re-imagining of unrelenting ambition and bloody betrayal also highlights the resilience and complexity of individuals living with disabilities, both on and off the stage. In a powerful reflection of Michael Patrick’s own lived experience, Richard has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and is navigating life with a new disability. His determined quest to take the crown comes not only from a desire to leave his mark on the world but also from a deep defiance against the cruel fate that has shaped his life.
“A landmark, intensely moving central performance dominates this tantalising revisioning of Shakespeare’s great history play…” - The Stage ★★★★★
The Tragedy of Richard III is directed by Oisín Kearney.
Set and Costume: Niall McKeever
Lighting: Jonny Daley
Music and Sound Design: Katie Richardson
The production features a stellar cast: Michael Patrick and Zak Ford-Williams (Richard), Paula Clarke (Tyrell), Ghaliah Conroy (Lady Anne), Michael Curran Dorsano (Hastings), Allison Harding (Duchess of York), Patrick McBrearty (Buckingham), Charlotte McCurry (Queen Elizabeth), Chris McCurry (Stanley), and Ciaran O’Brien (Clarence).
LISTEN TO SOME EXAMPLES OF THE MUSIC BELOW
“A richly human portrayal of power, ambition, and fate…the adaptation is a powerful reflection on both Shakespeare’s timeless themes and contemporary issues of disability and identity.”
Love Belfast
“carries Shakespeare’s classic themes of betrayal, death, and ambition, yet brings a modernisation that reflects our everyday realities and the devastation of living with a terminal illness.”
Arts Dispatch ★★★★
“Entertaining, energetic, and soulful.” - British Theatre Guide
“Bold, ambitious, worthy of the name.” - Belfast Times
“A whip-smart adaptation…A testament to how disability can be very naturally and inclusively incorporated into theatre.”- Alan in Belfast