Edward II

Synopsis

Edward, much to the despair of his wife and contempt of his barons, is very fond of both. King Edward comes to the throne, and immediately recalls his banished lover, Pierce Gaveston- an order that puts him at odds with most of his court. Edward must battle his sneering subjects, his scorned wife and his own family for not only the right to rule, but for the right to love...

Our Review:

13 September 2011

Director Toby Frow’s decision to set Edward II in the 1950s seems an unusual choice for 16th century Christopher Marlowe's play but it brings a familiar context rife with social and political change.

The austerity of the times is reflected in Ben Stones' design for the Royal Exchange, the entire stage area covered with grey flagstones, creating a series of wide steps. This ensures that multiple events can happen on stage at one time, without detracting from each other. Frow makes good use of different heights available throughout the play, as well as spacing out characters across the stage.

Opening in a Paris jazz club just outside the stage area, the theme carries on into the theatre itself where we meet Piers Gaveston. Exiled in free and easy Paris, he is brought back to his childhood friend Edward II’s court for his coronation where their close relationship faces prejudice (again ringing true for the 1950s...

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Latest User Review

Humphrey McColl - 5 October 2011:

Once in a while I see a play that reminds me of everything I love in theatre. This is one such production. Frow brings us a production which never lets its grip on the audience loose; and his choice of era feels especially apt in the wake of films like The Kings Speech and the current vogue for royal gossip. Theres not a single flaw in the performances which are powerful and moving. The unbelievable quality of the stage and costume design must also be mentioned. I have only one thing to say to Frow and to the Royal Exchange, and that is thank-you. @humpledoodle...

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