Actors Shakespeare Projects' Artistic Director Allyn Burrows to Helm RICHARD II at YMCA Central Square

Actors' Shakespeare Project continues its 12th season in the new year with Richard II, one of Shakespeare's most lyrical and epic plays, February 17-March 13, 2016, at YMCA Central Square, Cambridge.

Written entirely in verse, Richard II is a compelling and provocative study of a king and his nation, caught in the upheaval of social change and political turmoil. Directed by ASP Artistic Director Allyn Burrows, the beautiful poetry of Richard II tugs at the heart, unflinchingly charting the descent of one leader and the meteoric rise of another. The prize in this battle of personalities is the crown of England, and the future of the nation hangs perilously in the balance.

"Shakespeare's history plays are a blast to do under any circumstances because, contrary to what many people may think, they're immensely personal," says Burrows. "Richard II is a thoroughbred: beautiful language, searing political acrimony, raging familial antipathy and some irony thrown in for good measure." He adds, "We're thrilled to be back in Central Square for this run, in the intimate setting of the YMCA theatre, and we believe audiences unfamiliar with the play will be surprised at what a rich and immediate story Shakespeare has crafted."

The seven-member cast features members of the Resident Acting Company as well as guest artists. Doug Lockwood* (King Richard II), Marya Lowry* (Duchess of York), Paula Plum* (Queen), Michael Forden Walker* (Henry Bolingbroke, Duke of Hereford, son to John of Gaunt; afterwards King Henry IV), and Robert Walsh* (Duke of York, uncle to the King). The additional cast features Lewis D. Wheeler* (Mowbray/Henry Percy) and Malcolm Ingram* (John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, uncle to the King).

The designers include Janie E. Howland** (Scenic Designer), Daniel H. Jentzen (Lighting Designer), Tyler Kinney** (Costume Designer), and Arshan Gailus (Sound Designer).

For more information, visit ActorsShakespeareProject.org.