Mom Theatre Blogger: KING CHARLES III: Show Review by Robin Gorman Newman
Photo by Joan Marcus
Who knew that the photogenic young married set of Royals could be so scheming and plotting that despite their do-good, well-crafted, public persona and seemingly serene demeanor, they could shrewdly plot to de-throne their own father and father-in-law who has waited a lifetime to rule once Queen Elizabeth passes away.
Hence is the fantasy tale and the tangled Shakesperean-like web skillfully spun by playwright Mike Bartlett in what is the winner of the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Play, King Charles III.
The play is a thought-provoking and engaging take on the Royals, what is expected of them, the politics of ruling Britain and the underpinnings and influence of even its youngest members. It focuses on the controversy that erupts when Charles takes a stand against a piece of legislation passed by Parliament to place limitations on members of the press….and what this conjures up as a result.
Joining Tim Pigott-Smith, reprising his much-praised portrayal of King Charles III, are Anthony Calf as Mr. Stevens, Oliver Chris as William, Richard Goulding as Harry, Nyasha Hatendi as Spencer and other roles, Adam James as Mr. Evans, Margot Leicester as Camilla, Miles Richardson as James Reiss, Tom Robertson as Cootsey and other roles, Sally Scott as Sarah and other roles, Tafline Steen as Jess and Lydia Wilson as Kate.
Directed by Rupert Goold, King Charles III features sets (stark but effective) and costumes by Tom Scutt, music compositions by Jocelyn Pook, lighting design by Jon Clark and sound design by Paul Arditti.
Actors make their way down the aisles at times, and the cast performs regally, with Chris and Wilson most closely physically embodying their roles of the attractive Windsors who yearn to rule. Goulding as Harry is strong and spirited, and his gal pal Jess, Tafline Steen, is a feisty force to be reckoned with who is as much in awe of the Royals as she in disdain at the prospect of becoming one. One can’t help but imagine the real life Harry and all his well-chronicled escapades with women who question the daily existance of a Royal and the public scrutiny it invites. Even Princess Diana has a presence on stage, as Sally Scott makes several ghostly and ominous appearances, adding some intrigue.
King Charles III is provocative and stirring, and I must confess, every time I now look at a paparazzi shot of William or Kate, a part of me questions the facade of it all. King Charles III worked its memorable monarch stagecraft magic on me.
Tickets for King Charles III are available for purchase in person at the Music Box Theatre box office and online at www.telecharge.com, or by calling Telecharge at 212-239-6200.
Visit www.KingCharlesIIIBroadway.com.
