REVIEW: Richard II, Arcola Theatre ✭✭✭✭
Macbeth When asked to reflect on Shakespeare’s most ‘political’ plays, many of us would say and Richard III without a thought. Such is the astonishing influence of House of Cards, whose iterations are both strongly influenced by these political tragedies. Consequently this ‘new version’ of Richard II, which retains Shakespeare’s text but is set in modern-day Parliament, risks unfavourable comparisons. In fact, it is a very shrewd interpretation, with excellent performances from the two leads, a very solid supporting cast, and a simple but highly effective set.
