April 2, 1999
KALAMAZOO -- The University Theatre and Full City Cafe close the 1998-99 season with William Shakespeare's Richard III, April 8-11 and 15-17, in Laura V. Shaw Theatre. Performances Thursdays through Saturdays are at 8 p.m. and on Sunday, April 11, at 2 p.m.
Considered to be one of Shakespeare's darkest and most tragic histories, Richard III tells the tale of Richard of Gloucester, a young prince who manipulates his way to the throne. While enduring the silence of his opposition, Richard creates chaos and wreaks havoc on the land. Despite his nefarious and murderous ways, the citizens of London rally in support and Richard takes the crown.
Directed by Joan Herrington, who spent over four months researching and developing her adaptation of Shakespeare's classic tragedy, Richard III promises to be an exciting production. Revising to clarify the important themes in Richard III , Herrington cut significant portions of the text, interpolated text from other of Shakespeare's plays, experimented with repeated dialogue, and emphasized rhythmic presentation. Herrington said that she selected this play for production due to the profound contemporary resonance as it examines how a society not only tolerates, but actually supports evil domination.
The cast includes E. Vincent Teninty, Brian Frank, Scott Nice, Geoff Button, James Knight, Christopher Webb, A.J. Wedding, Joe Jung, Christopher M. Gavin, Page Kennedy, Paul Kriner, Josh Ryder, Joshua Head, Leslie Connelly, Tiffany LaVoie, Dana Piccoli, Kelly O'Connor, Meriah Tetzlaff, Julieanne Ziegler, Melody Winters, Michelle Cowin, Matt Eldred, David Curtis, Liz Stanley, Meghan Hissong, Bill Bradley, Brian P. Sage, Doug Spanola, Monica Cuoco and Andres Lopez. In addition to a stellar cast, Richard III also includes Costume Designer Paul Reinhardt, guest artist from the Texas Shakespeare Festival and Adjunct Professor of Theatre.
Ticket prices are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors & students, and $6 for students at the door. Special rates are available for groups of 10 or more. For more information, call the Gilmore Theatre Ticket Office Monday through Friday, Noon to 6 p.m. at (616) 387-6222. The First Nighter's Reception is sponsored by Blake's Diner
Media contact: Deborah Franz, 616 387-6222
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