Any outdoor event will be a hostage to the weather even in late May. And so it proved as Shakespeare's Globe kicked off its summer programme in the midst of a torrential downpour. It didn't dampen anyone's spirits as we all savoured this masterful production of Richard III. We watched from the middle gallery as a throng of hardy souls gathered in the pit armed with anoraks and ponchos. Some searched for cover in isolated spots but resistance was futile; it rained vertically, diagonally and horizontally. This added to the atmosphere as raindrops padded onto the roof and formed neat pools of water around the stage.

Richard III is one of the most distinctive of Shakespeare’s histories, with the duplicitous and disfigured monarch at its centre. The very second those immortal lines hit the ears, the audience know the purest drama is afoot; “now is the winter of our discontent, made glorious summer by this son of York”. It sends a shiver down the spine and perfectly captures the mood as the tension slowly builds. An eternal story of power and ambition resonates through history and human endeavour. R3 provides the inspiration for many other dramatic pieces include sprawling TV epic Game of Thrones and explores themes that are never dated.

The story begins with a speech delivered by Richard, Duke of Gloucester (Michelle Terry), brother of the recently crowned King Edward IV. Richard has already murdered Henry VI to put Edward on the throne, but his ambitions will not rest there. When King Edward IV conveniently falls ill, Richard hatches a plan to take the crown. He kills indiscriminately and marries strategically to secure his own succession. The death of Edward leaves Richard as Lord Protector of his brother’s children, Princes Edward and Richard. They are all that stands between him and the crown. Did they also succumb to Richard’s lust for power?

The delightfully rustic surroundings of the Globe make any evening out one to remember. Even in driving rain, the Southbank has never looked finer. Michelle Terry leads an excellent company of actors who deliver every line with real aplomb. A five piece band perch above the action to create a quirky soundtrack that feels like an improvised jazz session, but only adds to the sense of occasion and unique experience offered by the Globe. There are only so many permutations in the way Richard III (or any Shakespeare play) can be presented but this production nails it with poise and sureness of touch. Part museum, part theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe is the place to be this Summer.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Brian Penn

Richard III plays at Shakespeare’s Globe until 3 August, with further info available here.