Following the success of their recent, and first ever, outdoor production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream featuringa range of inclusive, accessible community-led artistic collaborations, Lyric Theatre has revealed they’re creating more milestones with their forthcoming re-imagined production of Shakespeare’s Richard III. The Tragedy of Richard III, 12 October – 10 November 2024, directed by Oisín Kearney will provide inclusive and accessible opportunities to ensure all artists involved in the production can thrive.
Thanks to a recent fundraiser, the Lyric has ensured that both actors playing Richard III – Michael Patrick who has Motor Neurone Disease and Zak Ford-Williams who has Cerebral Palsy and Deaf artist Paula Clarke (Tyrell) have the necessary support to fully participate in this production. This includes a full-time BSL interpreter, backstage support and providing fully accessible transport and accommodation. Reflecting the Lyric’s commitment to creating a truly inclusive and accessible theatre environment and playhouse for all.
This re-imagining of a story of unrelenting ambition and bloody betrayal – one man, one crown, no mercy – also highlights the resilience and complexity of individuals living with disabilities, both on and off the stage. In a powerful reflection of Michael Patrick’s own lived experience, Richard is portrayed as the King’s youngest brother, diagnosed with a terminal illness and navigating life with a new disability. His determined quest to take the crown from his brothers and nephews comes not only from a desire to leave his mark on the world but also from a deep defiance against the cruel fate that has shaped his life.
The production features a stellar cast including: Ghaliah Conroy (Lady Anne), Michael Curran Dorsano (Hastings), Allison Harding (Duchess of York), Patrick McBrearty (Buckingham), Charlotte McCurry (Queen Elizabeth), Chris McCurry (Stanley), and Ciaran O’Brien (Clarence).
Jimmy Fay, Executive Producer of Lyric Theatre Belfast, said:
“The Tragedy of Richard III is a tale of ambition, power, and defiance against fate, and we are proud to present it in a way that ensures equal access and opportunity for all our artists as well as providing an unmissable and thrilling night at the theatre. Everything is set for the scheming king to seize control of the Lyric’s stage this autumn.”
Jimmy adds:
“The Lyric is having a year of Shakespeare, and what is also exciting is how this production continues from A Midsummer Night’s Dream and represents another milestone in our work on accessibility and inclusion. Working with Oisín, Michael, Zak and Paula has been an extraordinary journey, and we are deeply inspired by their determination and bravery and we are equally inspired by the support provided by all our cast and company.”
Tickets for The Tragedy of Richard III start from only £15 and are available to book now at www.lyrictheatre.co.uk. Follow the Lyric on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @LyricBelfast.
The Lyric Theatre is supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland National Lottery funding and Belfast City Council. The Tragedy of Richard III will be the opening event of this year’s Belfast International Arts Festival 2024. Accessible Performances will take place on Sun 3 November, 14.30 (Audio Described); Wed 6 November, 19.30 (Captioned Performance). Signed Performance (ISL & BSL) to be confirmed.
- The Role of Richard III will be played by Michael Patrick and Zak Ford-Williams. Michael Patrick will perform on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening and Thursday matinee. Zak Ford-Williams will perform on Thursday evening, Saturday and Sunday matinees. Please note this is subject to change.
- Creative Team:
William Shakespeare – Writer
Michael Patrick & Oisín Kearney – Writers (Adapted By)
Oisín Kearney – Director
Niall McKeever – Set and Costume Designer
Jonathan Daley – Lighting Designer
Katie Richardson – Sound Designer
Austin Gallagher – Percussion Composer
