Live-streamed production brings the stage into the digital age
On Nov. 13 at 7 p.m., The Royal Shakespeare Company, one of the world’s best-known theatre companies, broadcast a live staging of Richard II directed by Gregory Doran, starring David Tennant in the title role.
Though the Royal Shakespeare Theatre is based in Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s hometown, fans of the bard and theatre buffs could view the play on the big screen at cinemas around the world, and in Guelph it played at the Galaxy Cinema. This production of Shakespeare’s historic play was unique because it was the first to be broadcast live from Stratford; the production was filmed using multiple cameras around the stage and auditorium and streamed live. According to the RSC website, over 60,000 people watched Richard II in 364 cinemas across the U.K. on Nov.13, in addition to viewers in Canada and Northern Europe. It also had Shakespeare trending on Twitter in the U.K. under the hashtag #RSCRichardII. It brought $1.6 million in box office receipts.
The set was simple yet effective; the use of lighting to signal transitions between scenes was subtle yet sophisticated. Projected images formed an immaterial backdrop that worked to create a feeling of instability within the dark, medieval world. One intriguing detail was the use of hanging metal chains in the background – the metal beads reflected light cast by the projections, creating a sense of depth and contributing to the illusion of three-dimensional space.
Tennant brought a sense of pomp and cockiness to the role of the infamously arrogant King, who succeeded to the throne at age ten. In an interview shown before the production, Tennant spoke about the responsibility an actor takes on in playing the role of Richard II, who reigned as King of England from 1377 to 1399; there is pressure to remain historically accurate, while also bringing your own unique perspective to the role.
At times, it is difficult to sympathize with Richard II, whose hubris exceeds his ability to effectively lead a nation, leading to political turmoil and, ultimately, his downfall. However, in playing this role, Tennant also embodied the immense self-doubt and vulnerability of an individual trying to reconcile his own human limitations and weaknesses with his “god-given” role as King.
The success of the production highlights technology’s potential as a tool to broaden our cultural awareness on a large scale – bringing Shakespeare, straight from Stratford, to a wide audience around the world.