As is typical of Shakespeare’s tragedies, many must die for our lead character to resolve his issues with his world. And Richard III is trying to take over by means of murder. He’s got a father, brother, sister-in-law, nephews and various sundry supporting cast that must be done away with and in 45 minute. Fear not, everyone dies who is supposed to.
Although there are a few noteworthy performances, by and large the cast is school-level proficient. The director, who has subbed in for one of the missing actors, has directed this Richard to be more vicious than intelligent. And very “unformed”; hunched in half and dragging a too-extremely clubbed foot and cane.
The pace makes up for the lack of subtlety and the students work well as an ensemble.