Artscape presents Shakespeare’s, The Tragedy of King Richard III, a thrilling game of power and politics, at Maynardville Open-Air Theatre, for the first time in its history.

Richard III dramatizes a key turning point in English history.  Malicious, power hungry and bitter about his physical deformity, Richard, Duke of Gloucester, plots in secret as he manoeuvres his way to the throne – and decides to kill anyone he has to in order to become king.  Deception and political manipulation abound in the history of his reign of terror and killing fields that caused the common and noble people of England to fear and loathe him.

Award-winning director, Lara Bye, takes this classic tale of treachery and sets it in a heightened, contemporary, supernatural background.    Starring Warrick Grier as Richard, with Nicky Rebelo, Jennifer Steyn, Rob van Vuuren, Faniswa Yisa, with a full cast, this majestic production is a must to attend in the new year. 

It is the first time in the 58 year history of Maynardville that a production of The Tragedy of King Richard III will be performed at this venue. This spectacular green gem has earned its reputation of being the best-loved outdoor theatre venue in the Cape!  It is best known for its annual Shakespeare-in-the-Park productions which have been taking place since 1956.

 Maynardville Open-Air Theatre, situated in Wynberg, Cape Town, is surrounded by an expansion of lawn, populated with trees, a vibrant eco-system of birds and a water feature.

Richard III previews at Maynardville Open-Air Theatre on January 15, 16, 17 at 20:15 (two tickets for the price of one) and opens on Saturday, January 18, 2014, at 20:15.   Family performances are on January 20 & 21 at 19:15 (two tickets for the price of one).  Special performances are scheduled for students and learners on January 27, 28, February 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12 at 19:45.  Valentine’s Day will be celebrated on February 14 with lucky draw prizes and surprises.  Book at Computicket or Artscape Dial-a-Seat 021 421 7695,