Richard III: Bridge Project - to star Kevin Spacey

The final season of The Bridge Project starring Kevin Spacey, Artistic Director of The Old Vic, in the title role of Richard III, will open at London's Old Vic from 18 Jun 2011, before embarking on an international tour, arriving at BAM's Harvey Theater in New York in January 2012.

The Bridge Project will again be directed by Academy Award-winner Sam Mendes with whom Spacey worked on the film "American Beauty," for which they both won BAFTA and Academy Awards.

Shakespeare's Richard III tells the story of the Duke of Gloucester who plots and butchers his way to the throne, murdering his own young nephews in the Tower. The character of 'Richard III' is one of the most iconic roles in the Shakespeare canon.

The Bridge Project is a unique three-year series of co-productions by The Old Vic, BAM and Neal Street, devoted to producing large-scale, classical theatre for international audiences.

The full company will again be drawn from leading American and British actors, with complete casting and international dates to be announced. Tickets will go on sale for the BAM performances in the Fall of 2011.

Commenting on the final season, Sam Mendes says:
"I am absolutely delighted to be working with Kevin again for the first time since American Beauty, and I am doubly thrilled that he will be leading year three of The Bridge Project. Richard III is a play I love, and a role I think Kevin is born to play. I'm also thrilled that the partnership between our three entities has strengthened and blossomed over the course of this venture, along with a host of invaluable international partnerships that have enabled us to extend the reach of global touring year after year."

The Old Vic Artistic Director Kevin Spacey, who plays Richard III, says:
"Sam, [BAM Executive Producer] Joe [Melillo], and I are so excited to announce this production. Sam is one of the finest directors I have had the pleasure to work with and to gain this opportunity is beyond my wildest hopes. I love Sam's perspective on a role, carving and shaping the actor. With such a remarkable character before me I have a feeling this one is going to be a memorable experience. It is also my hope to bring a comprehensive educational programme and opportunities for emerging artists along with our travels, making an argument for the living theatre in all the major cities we will visit throughout 2011. We're delighted that Bank of America Merrill Lynch has come on board for another season as our sponsor and I applaud their continued support for our work."

BAM Executive Producer Joseph V. Melillo says:
"Producing The Bridge Project in association with my counterparts at Neal Street and The Old Vic has been one of the highlights of my professional career. To conclude this extraordinary enterprise with Kevin Spacey performing one of Shakespeare's most iconic roles under the direction of Sam Mendes gives new meaning to going out on a high note. It speaks so directly to the aims of The Bridge Project to have Kevin anchor the transatlantic cast: an American actor of the highest calibre who is also the head of one of London's most important theatres.

New York and London Performances:

London:
The Old Vic
Dates: 18 Jun - 11 Sep 2011
Tickets go on sale on 31 Jan 2011.

New York:
BAM
Dates: 10 Jan 2012 - 4 Mar 2012
Tickets to go on sale in the fall of 2011)