THE PLAY: Shagspeare [sic] struggles to write a play about the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. This literary discourse examines the politics and ethics of truth with nods to the theatrical process and the Bard himself.

 

THE PRODUCTION: The first act is long and wordy, but this production’s authority never falters. Act Two pays off with more heart, more emotion and more energy. The immensely capable ensemble (all but one is imported) handles the drama, dialogue and flashes of comedy with equal command. Director Jan Powell has staged it with confident flair, while Christopher Acebo’s wooden wonder of a set is beautifully supported by BJ Wilkinson’s dramatic lighting and Elizabeth Weiss Hopper’s handsome costumes. Some may find the play too erudite, but there’s no denying the superior quality of the production.

 

THE POINT: A commanding production of a literary discourse.

 

(4.5 / 5)

 

A co-production of Virginia Rep with Henley Street Theatre & Richmond Shakespeare at the November Theatre thru 10/19