Richard II

 Richard II
Red Bull Theatre
Astor Place Theatre
December 13, 2025

Photo courtesy of Red Bull Theatre

The Red Bull Theatre production of Richard II is polished, sharp, and passionate.  Craig Baldwin masterfully adapted and directed this William Shakespeare history play, making it modern and accessible.  Scenic design, by Arnulfo Maldonado, is simple, stylistic, and highly effective.  The costumes, by Rodrigo Muńoz, are a unique blend of periods, pulling the events of the play into a timeless setting.  The set and costumes allow Mr. Baldwin to present a seamless telling of this tale.  Richard is present in every scene, often skulking in the shadows, overhearing treasonous discussions as well as acts of honor and loyalty.  The prison cell from the opening scene transforms into numerous locations, allowing Richard’s fate to loom throughout the story.   

King Richard II (played by Michael Urie) banishes his cousin, Henry Bolingbrook, Duke of Hereford (played by Grantham Coleman) and Thomas Mowbray, Duke of Norfolk (played by Daniel Stewart Sherman) after their dispute over treasonous accusations.  When Henry Bollingbrook’s father, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (played by understudy Raphael Nash Thompson) dies, the Duchess of York (played by Kathryn Meisle) requests that Richard bring the banished Henry back to his homeland.  Not only does Richard refuse, but he seizes all the Duke of Lancaster’s property that Henry should rightfully inherit.  The Duchess of York joins Henry in a vengeful rebellion to overthrow the King. 

Grantham Coleman & Michael Urie
Photo courtesy of Red Bull Theatre

Michael Urie plays Richard II with wit, charm, and impeccable timing and valor.  He fully embodies this character and speaks the heightened language with eloquence and conviction.  He transitions from moments of intense introspection to sarcastic humor in an instant.  

Mr. Urie develops distinct and potent relationships with every cast member.  These relationships are vital in understanding the loyalty and treachery that drives the action.  The relationship he creates with Grantham Coleman’s Henry Bollinger changes drastically.  They go from loyal and respectful cousins to fierce enemies, as Bolingbrook attempts to take the throne from Richard.  Their connection is strong throughout the story, heightening the betrayal felt by both of them.

Kathryn Meisle, Grantham Coleman, & Emily Swallow
Photo courtesy of Red Bull Theatre

The relationship between Richard II, his Queen (played by Lux Pascal), and Aumerle (played by David Mattar Merten) is intriguing.  The love between them is passionate and truthful.  Kathryn Meisle portrays the Duchess of York with unwavering principle.  Her reasons for turning against Richard are clearly realized.  Emily Swallow’s Northumberland is cold and concise.  She stands forthright in her actions and convictions.    

Photo courtesy fo Red Bull Theatre

After Richard is imprisoned and Henry is about to be crowned King, the Bishop of Carlise (played by understudy Raphael Nash Thompson) delivers an impassioned speech that gives Henry pause.  It is a bold and risky move that makes Henry realize he needs Richard to willingly forfeit his crown in order for him to have a peaceful reign.  Mr. Thompson’s energy and intention give this moment the strength it needs to shift Henry’s course of action. 

Richard II has been extended.  It is playing at Astor Place Theatre through December 21.  It is a brilliant production. 

Domenick Danza