Richard II

William Shakespeare's Richard II is a rare treat for Valley audiences. And this production directed by Richard Baird is top-notch.

Jason Barth is both dynamic and creepy in the title role as we follow Richard on a journey from a world of grotesque opulence to a complete and utter downfall. Amanda Schaar shines as the queen, as she goes from basking in her husband's excesses, to showing all the frailties of a woman sheltered, to a final fiery defiance as she's ripped from her husband's arms. Richard Baird carries a quiet strength and power as Bolingbroke, the would-be successor to the crown.

But the real strength of this production lies in the ensemble, and there isn't a weakness in the cast. Most players handle multiple roles, and they handle them well. Trey Clevenger gives a strong performance as Northumberland, particularly as he addresses the audience and lays out the case against the troubled King. Sandy Elias nails the torn York, and you feel his agony. Keath Hall seems to be the man of a thousand personalities, going from characters like the pious and righteous Mowbray to the spunky young Hotspur with ease.

Director Baird's pacing is swift without sacrificing clarity, and he allows the audience an opportunity to relish in some of Shakespeare's finest speeches. Jim Coates delivers one such speech with passion and fervor as old Gaunt, and when Jason Barth's defeated and imprisoned Richard reflects on the time he has wasted, the audience can't help but ponder the time they have squandered in their own lives. It is powerful, moving theater - as relevant and alive as Shakespeare gets.

Some of the relevancy can be attributed also to Baird's direction. The choice to go with modern dress reminds the audience of current events, particularly during a mud-slinging election year. Baird's choice to stage two scenes that are typically cut from most productions is also a special treat. Both scenes are superbly funny and provide a welcome respite from the heavy material of the play.

Andi Watson is particularly hysterical as a controlling mother trying to save her son from execution. Mitchell Wyatt is perfect as the frightened young man, pulling off a bit of wonderful physical comedy as his mother prostrates him before the king. Dave Hurley also provides some funny moments, most notably as the dopey, goggled gardener who hoses down the audience as if we were his plants.

Space55 in downtown Phoenix is an intimate space, which only adds to the evening. For example, hearing the sound of a dainty earring hit the floor after being torn from a foppish syncophant's ear is chilling. When Richard is ritually shamed with dirt, an important symbol in this production, you see the disgust in the fallen king's eyes.

This production, part of a special joint venture between the Shakespeare Sedona festival and Richard Baird's San Diego-based troupe Poor Players, features the finest classical actors in the Valley. It is a feast for the theater-goer and should not be missed.