Castle stages epic tale of tragedy

The historic backdrop of Ludlow Castle has created an atmospheric platform on which many a magnificent production has been staged, and this year's play, Richard III, will be no exception.

Running daily throughout the 15-day Ludlow Festival from June 21 to July 6, this epic performance combines an impressive roll-call of acting talent with the drama of an historic open-air setting to bring one of Shakespeare's greatest works to life.

Richard III is an intricate tale of jealousy and ambition, centred around Shakespeare's unfavouring portrayal of troubled Richard's brief reign over England.

John Killoran leads a sparkling cast including Philip Ruck, Romy Baskerville, Oliver Beamish, Liz Crowther, Jeffery Hamer, Harry Napier and William Oxborrow.

The play is being jointy produced by Ludlow Festival and the Exeter Northcott Theatre Company.

"Our history with open air productions started in 1995 with A Midsummer Nights Dream in a wooded dell below the ruins of Rougemont Castle - a perfect setting for such a magical play," says Exeter Northcott's artistic director Ben Northcott.

"Over the years we have adapted this environment for a dozen more productions, and are relishing the opportunity to take a production to an entirely different and atmospheric location and to perform in front of an audience from an entirely different region."

The play will be supplemented by a talk from Shakespeare expert Prof. Stanley Wells which examines the intriguing myths and truths linked to Shakespeare's life and work. The talk takes place on June 30 at 7.30pm at Ludlow Assembly Rooms.

For a full list of Richard III performance times, ticket availability, cast information and updated announcements, visit www.ludlowfestival.co.uk or contact the Ludlow Festival box office on (01584) 875070.

To book your tickets for Richard III online, click here.