The Lyric Theatre is proud to announce The Tragedy of Richard III (12 October – 10 November 2024), an electrifying reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic play, as part of this year’s Belfast International Arts Festival. Adapted by Oisín Kearney and Michael Patrick, this production stars Michael Patrick in the title role and promises to be a gripping tale of ambition, defiance, and the relentless struggle against fate.
Richard, the King’s youngest brother, has been dealt a cruel hand—diagnosed with the terminal illness Motor Neurone Disease. Disabled and disillusioned, Richard finds himself without purpose after the war that crowned his brother. What will he do with his dying days? Seize the crown? Or burn the kingdom to the ground?
Reflecting the true-life story of Michael Patrick, who continues to write and perform following his own diagnosis of Motor Neurone Disease, The Tragedy of Richard III is more than just a bid for power. It is a defiant roar against the fate that seeks to silence him. Richard's fierce will to defy his destiny will culminate in a coronation like no other, and you’re invited to witness it.
This adaptation, directed by Kearney, explores Richard’s relentless quest to leave his mark on the world before it’s too late, as he battles time, disability, and the chains of society. In a world where mercy is a weakness, and only the ruthless survive, Richard sets in motion a bloody chain of events that will lead to death and destruction.
Patrick and Kearney are the writing team behind other smash theatrical hits such as My Left Nut (★★★★★ - Voice Mag UK); The Alternative (★★★★★ - The Sunday Times); and Lie Low (★★★★★ - The Irish Times).
Michael Patrick commented:
“In February 2023 I was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease - a fatal neurological illness which also killed my father. As a writer and actor, I’m trying to make lemonade out of this horrible bunch of lemons, and with my writing partner Oisín Kearney, have written an adaptation of Richard III, and I will be performing the show in a wheelchair. I’m eager to bring everything I’ve learned from performing in other Shakespeare productions at the RSC, The Abbey Theatre, and The Cambridge Shakespeare Festival to this extraordinary role.”
Jimmy Fay, Executive Producer of Lyric Theatre Belfast, commented:
"When Michael shared his diagnosis and suggested playing Richard III, I knew it was something that needed to happen on the Lyric main stage. Michael and Oisín have crafted a fascinating and thought-provoking take on the Richard III story that will captivate audiences and take them on an unforgettable journey."
Tickets for The Tragedy of Richard III start from £15 and are available to book now at www.lyrictheatre.co.uk. Follow the Lyric on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook @LyricBelfast.
The Lyric Theatre is supported by Arts Council of Northern Ireland National Lottery funding and Belfast City Council.