REVIEW

Engaging and emotionally charged
Carmen Simoni

Christopher Marlowe’s Edward The Second is not a play I was previously familiar with and as such I admit I approached this production with a measure of hesitation. With little knowledge on the subject matter, I expected to be presented with another tale of historic power play amongst the rich and royal, however, I found I was drawn into a beautifully woven love story.

Some consider Marlowe’s language to be more accessible than the often “flowery” and poetic style of his contemporary, Shakespeare. Nevertheless, I must credit not only the exceptionally powerful performances, but also the cast’s remarkable clarity in delivering their lines, for my clear understanding of the play’s themes and my complete enjoyment of this production.

Photo by Rebecca Cockcroft

'Palpable passion'

The acting talent on display was outstanding throughout. The central love square was brought to life with notably professional performances from Daniel Burrows, Rik E Dean, Beverley Webster, and Graham Breeze. Their powerful portrayals resulted in a story that was deeply moving and resonant. Supporting them was a strong blend of fresh faces and seasoned regular members of Masque, each contributing something unique to the production’s overall strength.

Even the smaller roles were delivered with palpable passion. Martin McCreadie and Greg Dolman particularly stood out for their dynamic double act, with Dolman later adding a chilling edge when paired with Michaela Clement-Hayes as the devilish murderers. The cast took on multiple roles, with each turn adding depth, intrigue and sincerity to the unfolding drama.

Adding to the atmosphere was the imaginative use of lighting and stage effects, some not often seen in the Holy Sepulchre (with the church itself used as a set to great effect. I love when actors break from the round to clutch at those historic pillars at moments of delight or distress!). The coloured lighting, clever use of the smoke machine and strobe effects all heightened the storytelling, transforming the space and drawing the audience further into the world of the play.

Photo by Rebecca Cockcroft

'Period pieces'

Kudos must also go to the costume design. The stage was graced with beautiful period pieces, and subtle details, such as the matching grey jackets worn by Edward II and his son, (played with earnest enthusiasm by Hari Turner) provided visual cues that enhanced the narrative.

Overall, this was a thoroughly engaging and emotionally charged performance of Edward II, brought to life by a talented and passionate cast, clever stagecraft, and thoughtful design choices.

Historic power play was certainly on display, with significant doses of jealously, greed, sabotage and revenge threaded throughout. However, the themes of love, passion, loyalty and determination across all relationships, but especially the ‘doomed and illicit’ love affair between Edward II and Gaveston, ensure that this story continues to resonate deeply with modern audiences. A huge well done to all involved in this fantastic production.

Photo by Rebecca Cockcroft

PREVIEW

A timeless tale
Rob Kendall, director

Edward the Second is a dramatised account of the 'true' history of Edward's 'affection' for his 'minion' and how it led to his dramatic downfall with his Queen and the Earls turning against him.

Edward's problem was loving too well rather than ruling too strong.

The preface page of the book, printed in 1598, gives the plot away. But for those who are unfamiliar with the play:

"The troublesome reign and lamentable death - Edward the Second, King of England, with the tragical fall of proud Mortimer and also the life and death of Piers Gaveston, the great Earl of Cornwall, and mighty favourite of the King"

Need I say more? Well, yes - really.

The plot is as much about Edward's 'passion' for his favourite as it is about the Earls and Barons are obsessed about Gaveston's influence on the King and the perceived threat to their power.

Queen Isabella is also part of this debacle but mostly promoted by Mortimer's desire to be Regent.

Beverley Webster as Queen Isabella and Rik E Dean as Gaveston | Photo by Rik E Dean

The turmoil leads to several deaths, including Gaveston's, as the battle runs between passion and rule and King Edward's grisly ending.

The 17 strong cast are led by Daniel Burrows as King Edward, Rik E Dean as Gaveston and Graham Breeze as Mortimer, with Beverley Webster as Queen Isabella.

I don't have space to name all of the cast, some of whom are new to Masque, plus a few stalwarts, but there are 28 named roles in the play so there is some considerable doubling-up!

Daniel Burrows as Edward II | Photo by Rik E Dean

Learning new things

As a director, you also learn new things about a play however much you thought you knew before. Particularly as Edward the Second is based on 'real' history and events, though, of course, compacted into a two and half hour show rather than the 15 years. of actual time (who would sit it out for that long?!).

I first came upon the script in 1965 studying it for A level, and saw a production at Birmingham Rep at the same time, with Henry Knowles as Edward - he later worked at the Royal, and then it resurfaced for me when I taught it in London (c1980s) - more recently I saw the RSC's version - same plot but very exaggerated view in places.

The 'Round' of Holy Seps lends itself very much to this period piece (oh and it will be warmer too).

So do come and see this 'first' for Masque and decide for yourself whose side you're on, and if King Edward and Co got what they deserved or not.

Martin McCreadie as Baldock and Greg Dolman as Spencer | Photo by Rik E Dean