Quick Hit Theater Review: Richard II -- The Pearl

From L to R: Sean McNall (Richard II), Jolly Abraham (Harry Percy), and Grant Goodman (Henry Bolingbroke). Photo: Gregory Costanzo

Richard II
By William Shakespeare
Directed by J.R. Sullivan
The Pearl Theatre Company

Summary:
Shakepeare's verse-laden play about 14th-century King Richard II (Sean McNall) who starts by making a poor decision while deciding a charge of treason brought by his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke, the Duke of Hereford (Grant Goodman), against the Duke of Norfolk, Thomas Mobray (Chris Mixon) and ends up by losing his crown. A series of plots and rebellions undermine his power and that of Bolingbroke, who usurps him, as men vie for control of " this earth, this realm, this England."

Highlights:
Jolly Abraham shines as Richard's queen and in a second role of Harry Percy. (a number of the ensemble, six of whom are members of the Pearl's resident acting company, play dual roles across genders in the production). Sullivan's tight direction creates some vivid visuals. Carol Schultz as the Duchess of York shows comedic skill in a scene where she pleads for the life of her son, the Duke of Aumerle (Wayne T. Carr) who has plotted against the king, a crime for which his father, the Duke of York (Bill Christ) wants him punished. Harry Feiner's simple set quickly conveys time and place as well as providing a second platform level for action in the tiny stage. Lighting designer Stephen Petrilli contributes some nifty stained glass and other (and stairs tuck neatly underneath the platform). Martha Hally's minimal costumes convey period and character well and the mood is enhanced by music and sound effects (Jane Shaw, sound design).

Lowlights:
Not one of Shakespeare's more interesting plays, it feels like a very long history lesson at two hours and 50 minutes (with one intermission). This Richard seems a little too weak and eager to shed tears. Folks at intermission were asking who the characters were and how they were related to each other. A helpful synopsis of the plot is included in the program, but the large number of characters (more than 30) and the doubling of roles apparently is confusing for many.

Information:
Richard II runs through Dec. 24 at New York City Center Stage II, 131 West 55th St. (between 6th and 7th avenues). Tickets can be purchased by calling 212-581-1212 or online at www.NYCityCenter.org.

Christians might also like to know:
No notes. Enjoy!