Play By the Book

Dramatic readings of exciting plays, offering new perspectives and voices expanding the classical canon.

The African Company Presents: Richard III by Carlyle Brown

Set against the backdrop of nineteenth-century New York, this historical drama tells the story of two competing productions of Richard III: one by the African Company, an all-Black company of actors, presenting a production that enchants Black and white audiences alike; and another presented by Stephen Price, an uptown producer who is threatened by the success of the other production. The African Company’s competitive and enduring desire to express its own artistic voice is challenged by racism, privilege, and the cultural bias embedded in Shakespeare.

Presented in collaboration with Shakespeare BASH’d. Facilitated by Mũkonzi Mũsyoki, Julia Nish-Lapidus and James Wallis.