Richard III: Ron Cephas Jones to star

Ron Cephas Jones (Storefront Church - Atlantic Theater) will star as Richard III in the Public Theater's Mobile Shakespeare Unit production, directed by Amanda Denhert.

The show will play at the Public Theater from 6 - 25 Aug 2012, following a three week tour around New York City, performing at homeless shelters, centers for the elderly, and other community venues throughout the five boroughs.

The Public's Artistic Director Oskar Eustis said, "The Public Theater was founded to bring Shakespeare to those who are excluded from the world of theater and culture. Reviving The Mobile Shakespeare Unit is a vital part of continuing that great mission, to ensure that we are one nation, not a land divided into those who have access and those who don't. Culture is a birthright, not a commodity."

Joining Ron Cephas Jones in Richard III are Michelle Beck (Anne), Suzanne Bertish (Margaret), Keith Eric Chappelle (Hastings), Michael Crane (Buckingham), Lynn Hawley (Elizabeth), Alex Hernandez (Catesby), Miriam Hyman (Clarence) and Kevin Kelly (Edward).

Richard III cuts a scorched-earth swath through the politicos, power-mongers, and even his own family members who stand between him and the crown. But before heI can enjoy the fruits of his ill-gotten gain, something stirs that freezes him in his tracks: Conscience.

The production will feature set and costume design by Linda Roethke.