Richard III, Scene 2, Act IV, "Richard III" by William Shakespeare
Model-box for "Richard III" . Foto by me.
Hello everyone!
Today I would like to talk about a project that is really special to me - the set design I made for "Richard III" by William Shakespeare. This project was part of my Bachelor's Degree, so I worked on it for several months. Of course, when we talk about Shakespeare, we generally admire his genius because he wrote plays five hundred years ago that still resonate with us today. They are universal and timeless. Talking about the eternal problems and desires that people have had and continue to have, Shakespeare's creations will always be staged. Every single year, new directors find new meanings in them.
And "Richard III" makes no exception! This play is, of course, about the battle for power. It portrays another famous historical character whom Shakespeare transformed into a negative example. Richard III is one of the most bloodthirsty characters ever created, willing to do anything to obtain what he desires, no matter how many people he must eliminate. But for me, it's also about the enormous power that a living being has, the immense freedom that should come with a significant amount of responsibility. Because our actions have consequences, and Richard learns that firsthand.
While I was contemplating how to create a space for this bloody tragedy, I asked myself, "How can I suggest blood on the stage in a metaphorical way rather than a realistic one? How can I make blood in a manner that has never been done before?"
And the answer came to me on an autumn morning while I was walking towards my university. I saw a little red leaf fall off a tree, slowly and gracefully. That's when I found my inspiration! I decided to represent all the blood shed by Richard as little blood-red leaves that would fall on the stage every time he kills someone.
By the end of the play, a great number of leaves will take over the stage! They will be everywhere, and Richard will meet his end, drowned in them. Drowned in all the blood that he spilled. He initiated the vicious cycle of killing to obtain power, and he ended up being consumed by it, consumed by all his killings.
Who would have ever thought that a single leaf could inspire you in such an unexpected way? Inspiration works in mysterious ways! Feel free to let me know in the comments when was the last time something unexpected inspired you!
Have a beautiful and inspirational day ahead!!!
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