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Billed by scholars as the first part of the all-encompassing Henriad, Richard II is a richly satisfying probe into the inner workings of monarchical rule and its evolution from being seen as divinely held to a more modern conception that incorporates political cunning. Shakespeare positions the titular Richard in the former position, his shortcomings as England’s leader made all too clear when he bungles the handling of a judicial duel, and then later seizes money and assets that are not rightfully his in order to fund an Irish war. At the opposite end is the Machiavellian opportunist Henry Bolingbroke, who assembles enough supporters to help him dethrone the king and become the future Henry IV—the protagonist of the next two plays in this historical series. Written entirely in verse and containing some of the Bard’s most florid and evocative language, Richard II never fails to transport its audience back to its time, where the furious machinations of government and kingly rule could be as captivating and intense as any battlefield siege. And to perform it all? Three men (Craig Franklin, Tomas Peter, and Brad “Hamlet” Filippone) and one woman (Sonia), determined to give you a performance of Shakespeare’s work that you will never forget. You thought you knew your Shakespeare? Well, think again! – Summary by Tomas Peter Brad “Hamlet” Filippone: Narrator; Henry Bolingbroke; Earl of Salisbury; Bushy; Abbot of Westminster; York’s Servant; Exton’s Servant; Gardener’s Servant; Another Lord. Sonia: Richard II; Richard’s Queen; Duchess of York; Duchess of Gloucester; […]

Murder and madness, witches and war: Librivox presents a recording of Macbeth, perhaps Shakespeare’s best known tragedy. Macbeth, a general in King Duncan’s army, is given a prophecy by a trio of witches: he himself will become king. Fired by ambition and goaded by his ruthless wife, he murders Duncan and assumes the throne. More killings follow as Macbeth attempts to retain his crown, until he discovers that prophecies are not always what they seem. (Summary by Laurie Anne Walden) Cast: Duncan – Joshua B. Christensen Malcolm – mb Donalbain – Ellis Christoff Macbeth – Mark F. Smith Banquo – Simon Larois Macduff – John Lieder Lennox – Mirza Ross – Rosalind Wills Menteith, Son of Macduff, and First Apparition – David Lawrence Angus, Second Apparition, and Third Murderer – Annoying Twit Caithness, Lord, Sergeant, and Soldiers – David Nicol Fleance – Aaron Elliott Siward – Brian Edwards Young Siward, Gentlewoman – Laurie Anne Walden Seyton, Old Man – Paul Williams Lady Macbeth – Elizabeth Klett Lady Macduff – LC Hecate – Ruth Golding First Witch – Jennifer Stearns Second Witch – Kristin Hughes Third Witch – Charlene V. Smith Doctor – Eric M. Johnson Servant and Attendant – Anna Simon Porter – David Leeson Third Apparition – Fionn Jameson First Murderer – hefyd Second Murderer – Anna Roberts Messenger – Ezwa Stage Directions – J. M. Smallheer Audio edited by J. M. Smallheer     [chương_files]