Richard II

 by William Shakespeare | directed by Sabrina Poole

16-18 and 22-25 January

“The children yet unborn shall feel this day as sharp to them as thorn.”

In order to silence a dispute before it turns bloody, King Richard banishes his cousin Henry Bolingbroke from England’s shores. But in his absence, Richard sees an opportunity and seizes his cousin’s lands to finance his costly wars. Angered, Bolingbroke breaks his exile and returns seeking justice. As Richard’s rule becomes increasingly unstable, Bolingbroke’s actions set in motion a series of violent events that will change the future of England forever.

A timeless story of corruption and power, and the complexities of loyalty in the face of a flawed ruler.

Photography: Sean Owen of Reflective Arts

"Sometimes the stars just align beautifully. An exceptional set of actors, the richest of texts, and a Director whose positive influence and clear vision is obvious. This production of Richard II is one of those instances... With such compelling drama and an awesomely powerful portrayal, Richard II at the Sewell Barn Theatre is simply one not to be missed." Ray Tempesta - East Anglian Theatre Podcast [click here for full review]

"I saw it last night and was really looking forward to seeing a play that I absolutely love. What a brilliant production with all round good performances. The lighting and sound were used to great effect on a striking set.  The production uses all available spaces really effectively.  Stand out performance from Richard II, wonderful direction; go and see it." Trudy

"Just back from Richard II at the Sewell Barn Theatre and highly recommend that you see it if you can. The storytelling is superb, and the cast bring great clarity to the narrative; the production values are outstanding and the many fight scenes exciting! It whizzes along and I was totally absorbed. Many congratulations to director Sabrina Poole and her whole team." Clare

"Before watching this performance Richard II probably wouldn't have even cleared my top five, but this well-wrought production has made me reconsider my rankings.... this was a very powerful production which made me evaluate the play with new eyes." Niamh Duncan - UK Theatre Network [click here for full review]

"Congrats to all involved in Richard II which we really enjoyed last night. Particularly impressed with the clear line delivery by all. Also impressed with the music used ... It was good to meet up with Ruby who I’ve worked with before and what a great performance from her - such a highly competent actor." David

"A fantastic production and great performances from the actors." Julian

"Saw the opening night of Richard II at the Sewell Barn Theatre on Thursday and I have to admit to reading a wiki synopsis beforehand as I didn't know the play and was braced for a confusing history lesson. I needn't have worried. In director Sabrina Poole's capable hands the storytelling was clear and the narrative had a terrific energy throughout. The cast of 18 worked with precision as an ensemble with great timing and choreography, enhanced by powerful sound and lighting to create an edge of the seat drama. And it was great to see proper sword fighting, swishy cloaks and gloves being flung down as challenges in every direction! Well done to Sab and her team - they deserve a few days off before the play opens again for 5 more performances next week Wed - Sat. Get your tickets now!" Clare Williamson, Sewell Barn FOH Manager

"[Jez] Pike is a haughty, cruel, and slightly manic monarch and roams the Sewell Barn’s intimate stage with assurance... This is a rare chance to catch one of Shakespeare’s lesser performed plays, with plenty of unique quirks to challenge those more familiar with the piece." James Goffin, Cultivated [click here for full review]

"Go see it!! Not the greatest of fans of Shakespeare like me? Still go... you won't regret it... I didn't!" Ginny

Contains depictions of violence. 

Tickets from www.ticketsource.co.uk/sewellbarn, or by phone 0333 6663366.