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July 20, 2020
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This year marks the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. A truly remarkable figure in history, Shakespeare’s 37 plays and 154 sonnets added over 3000 words and hundreds of idioms to the English language. The Bards influence is global, from Hollywood blockbusters to Bollywood movies, his plays have been translated into over 100 languages. Studied by over half the world’s children his influence continues to shape modern society, culture and language.
Riverside Theatres celebrates the legacy of the world’s most revered poet and playwright with these exceptional productions throughout the year.
LIVE PERFORMANCES
Sport for Jove Theatre Company: The Taming of the Shrew
5 to 7 May
Director Damien Ryan’s hugely successful production is a detailed and passionate reimagining of one of the world’s greatest comedies.
Sport for Jove’s world-class production won unanimous critical acclaim when performed outdoors in its 2011/12 Summer Festival Season and now this gem is coming to Riverside. Nominated for five Sydney Theatre Awards including ‘Best Production’, it is not to be missed!
LIVE PERFORMANCES ON SCREEN
Royal Shakespeare Company: Shakespeare Live! From the RSC
8 to 12 May
Captured live in Stratford-Upon-Avon and screened at Riverside, this once-in-a-lifetime event marks the 400th Anniversary of Shakespeare’s death. Hosted by David Tennant, this star-studded event features a stellar cast including Dame Judi Dench, Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Helen Mirren, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tim Minchin and Rufus Wainwright.
Globe On Screen: Measure for Measure
22 May to 11 July
After a history of quirky adaptations, this lesser known work by William Shakespeare is now restored to its classic glory. In this story of secret identities and manipulation, the audience are invited to unravel the layers of intrigue skilfully crafted by a superb cast and the directorial prowess of Dominic Dromgoole in his final production for the Globe Theatre. Captured live on stage at Shakespeare’s Globe, London and screened at Riverside.
Globe On Screen: The Merchant of Venice
19 June to 8 August
Jonathan Pryce (Game of Thrones, Pirates of the Caribbean), provides an enigmatic performance in this iconic battle between greed and love. This tale of prejudice and destructive self-interest paired with Pryce’s memorable interpretation makes this a must see. Captured live on stage at Shakespeare’s Globe, London and screened at Riverside.
Globe On Screen: Richard II
10 July
Simon Godwin delivers a dynamic portrayal of a play filled with both violence and comedic irony. Starring Charles Edwards (Downton Abbey, Philomena), Godwin’s production delves into the meaning of kingship and the rising powers that can destroy it. Captured live on stage at Shakespeare’s Globe, London, the rich colours and lavish costumes of this historical play transfer superbly to Riverside’s big screen.
Royal Shakespeare Company: Hamlet
17 July
Simon Godwin directs Paapa Essiedu as Hamlet in Shakespeare’s searing tragedy. As relevant today as when it was written, Hamlet confronts each of us with the mirror of our own morality in an imperfect world. Captured live on stage in Stratford-Upon-Avon and screened at Riverside.
Branagh Theatre Live: Romeo and Juliet
27 to 29 August
A longstanding feud between Verona’s Montague and Capulet families brings about devastating consequences for the two young lovers caught in the conflict. Reuniting the stars of his celebrated film Cinderella, Kenneth Branagh directs Richard Madden and Lily James as Romeo and Juliet and Sir Derek Jacobi as Mercurtio. Captured live on stage at The Garrick Theatre, London and screened at Riverside.
Royal Shakespeare Company: Cymbeline
30 October
Shakespeare’s rarely performed coming of age tragicomic romance captured live in Stratford-Upon-Avon and screened at Riverside. Britain in crisis. Alienated, insular and on the brink of disaster. Can it be saved? A story of power, sexuality and identity – stunningly retold for the 21st Century.
Royal Shakespeare Company: King Lear
4 December
King Lear has ruled for many years. As age begins to overtake him, he decides to divide his kingdom amongst his children, living out his days without the burden of power. Gregory Doran directs Antony Sher in one of the greatest parts ever written by Shakespeare. Captured live on stage in Stratford-Upon-Avon and screened at Riverside.