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The London Theatre Company has unveiled a new trailer for Richard II, featuring Jonathan Bailey in the title role and directed by Nicholas Hytner. This contemporary interpretation of Shakespeare’s incisive and compelling drama is currently being staged at the Bridge Theatre and will run for an additional four weeks, concluding on May 10, 2025. You can view the trailer here!
Alongside Jonathan Bailey, known for roles in major productions such as Wicked and Bridgerton, the cast includes Royce Pierreson (The Witcher, Judy) portraying Henry Bullingbrook. The ensemble also features Christopher Osikanlu Colquhoun as the Earl of Northumberland, Olivia Popica as Queen Isabel, Amanda Root in dual roles as Green and the Duchess of York, and Nick Sampson as John of Gaunt. Additionally, Phoenix Di Sebastiani takes on the role of Thomas Mowbray, while returning to the Bridge Theatre is Michael Simkins as the Duke of York.
The supporting cast comprises Adam Best (Peaky Blinders), Seamus Dillane as Duke of Surrey, Vinnie Heaven as Duke of Aumerle, Jordan Kouamé playing Bushy and Percy, Gerard Monaco as Scroop, George Taylor as Lord Fitzwater, and Badria Timimi as Bishop of Carlisle. There are also several understudies available, including Emma Bown and Martin Carroll.
Shakespeare’s Richard II presents a complex portrait of a ruler who is both charismatic and flawed—an eloquent figure who grapples with the heavy burdens of kingship while simultaneously embodying dishonesty and political recklessness. The narrative explores the timeless dilemma of leadership, highlighting the struggle against a monarch who believes in his divine right to rule yet poses a threat to his own kingdom. This duality is actively represented through the characters of Richard and Henry Bullingbrook, whose contrasting approaches to governance unfold throughout the play.
The production features notable design by Bob Crowley, who has previously worked on acclaimed adaptations at the Bridge Theatre. The lighting is crafted by Bruno Poet, while Carolyn Downing handles the sound design. The score is composed by Grant Olding, with additional support from Jeannette Nelson as the voice and text coach, and James Cousins as the movement director. The casting director Robert Sterne, known for his work on both stage and screen, has assembled a dynamic group of artists for this ambitious theatre project.
Source
www.broadwayworld.com