Richard lll Is A Triumph At The Gatehouse Theatre

Richard lll is arguably the greatest of Shakespeare’s history plays. It brings to an end the saga of the War of the Roses, whilst telling the sordid story of the last, and certainly the most infamous, of the Plantagenet kings. It is hard to think how a production could make this play feel new as it is just so well known and loved. Last night, however, the Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford, did just that, turning the 15th century story into one set in the 1930’s, in the grounds of a bombed out pub, with the protagonists very much resembling the gangs of the Peaky Blinders. It worked brilliantly, with Richard lll being the must see play for Summer 2026.

Mathew Duckett is an absolute wow as Richard. He brings to life the complexities of a man who is both utterly ruthless and yet can also be charming, even funny. His seduction scene of Lady Anne (LucindaFreeburn – very good) is a masterclass, as are scenes with brother Clarence, and his nephew Richard, his namesake who he clearly hates for his childish taunting. Duckett is a truly memorable Richard, who seems to have been evil since birth (with teeth no less).

Michael Skellern is a brilliant Buckingham, portraying him as scheming and on the make. As Machiavellian as Richard, the scenes where he realises he has been but another pawn for the now king are brilliantly played. Skellern plays Buckingham with a swagger that most resembles Shakespearean traditional portrayals. Sean O Callaghan plays triple roles, I was particularly impressed with his portrayal of Margaret of Anjou, the former queen, who is played almost like one of Macbeth’s witches, cursing the main protagonists and proving to be eerily correct.

The story is woven and linked through murders that propel Richard to the throne, and each is chillingly enacted, from the early murder of Clarence (Benedict Shaw, who makes him pitiful in his trust of Richard), to the sudden execution of the loyal Hastings (Jason Furnival), through to planning the murders of the young princes, to the smothering murder of the ‘barren’ Lady Anne (brilliantly staged as a dance of death.). The use of knives and guns for murders and executions add to the updated, gang like feel of the story and work perfectly, bringing Shakespeare to a new generation who adore Peaky Blinders. The fantastic set adds to this, each new king signified in the form of a pun sign. It gives the play a dark, atmospheric feel, as does the brilliant soundtrack used at key moments.

From the dance that starts the play, to the very final scene as the cast gather, and once again dance around the body of the late king, Richard lll is a truly exceptional update of an iconic play. Shakespeare would love this.

Richard lll Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford

Until July 4th 2026

Click here for ticket information

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