Our Citizen Review series is an invitation to a local theater-goer to review a current Arizona Theatre Company production.
It IS the bewitching month after all, and this contemporary play will have you pondering ghosts of your past, goals of your future and mourning dead dreams far gone. King Charles III will also make you laugh — and you’ll be reminded that you’re a human — trying to do your best each day. With current politics and daily stresses, you know we can all use an endless dose of magic like that.
The Company of Arizona Theatre Company’s King Charles III. Photo by Jeff Smith.
This play is real and clever and it’s easy to watch and listen to — British accents abound, but entrusted to this experienced cast, the story has clarity and is easy on the ear. The minimal set design, current-day wardrobes, alternative 80’s tracks, and fast-paced transitions, make this almost 3-hour production go by in a flash. King Charles III is a memorable show that any adult will enjoy.
The fresh script of Charles III delivered by its talented ATC cast, has us forgetting that we’re not watching a brilliant Bard production…it’s THAT good. Anyone can relate to these characters — even if they are royal — because we’ve felt what they feel. This time of year-nearing Halloween, makes certain scenes extra special to watch. No production surprises will be given away here, you will love discovering them yourself.
King Charles III. Image by Esser Design.
Afterward, you’ll ponder all that IS important to you today, subjects that our daily lives have caused to blur in the back of our brains. Forget the Royal Family across the pond — this story (like timeless Shakespeare) relates deeply to our lives here-and-now in the U.S. What decisions do we make about family, what is our role in society, how do we view youth and old age in our culture, and how are we accountable for the choices we make? How far does revenge get us? Should we continue with our old traditions of government, or should we rise up to create change – and what is the price of that change?
Buy a ticket and let yourself go – treat your busy brain to a big, fat break. The world created through the artfully crafted script, and painted by the seamless performance of these gifted actors, allows you to slowly, and then fully, get caught up in the rich and tragic story of King Charles III.
If You Go
What: Arizona Theatre Company’s “King Charles III”
When: Multiple performance times – Wednesday, October 19-Sunday, October 23
Where: Herberger Theater Center, 222 E Monroe St, Phoenix, 85004
Tickets: Purchase tickets here.
