One of the main reasons that the Washington area enjoys such a vibrant theatrical community is its remarkable wealth of talent.
One of the best (and most underrated) of these individuals is actor Bruce Alan Rauscher, who is currently playing the title role in the Washington Shakespeare Company’s production of “Edward III.” (The play is part of the Shakespeare in Washington festival, although no one can prove conclusively whether or not the Bard actually had a hand in writing it.)
Rauscher usually provides solid supporting performances, such as his recent turns in WSC’s “Hapgood” and “Equus,” but every so often he is given the opportunity to command center stage with leading roles such as his Helen Hayes-nominated performance in American Century Theater’s “The Andersonville Trial.” (Disclosure: Yours truly was in the cast of the aforementioned show.)
Rauscher is especially adept at subtle underplaying. However, director Joe Banno has obviously encouraged Rauscher to take a larger-than-life approach to Edward that proves to be particularly appropriate to the role. (The rest of the cast, which includes Kim Curtis, Jason McCool, Karen Novack, Joe Palka, Brian Razzino, Arthur Rowan, Miyuki Williams and Chuck Young, isn’t too shabby, either.)
Among the clues leading scholars to believe that “Edward III” may be a Shakespearian work are its similarity to later plays by the Bard. Indeed, the second half of “Edward III” mirrors the plot of “Henry V”: The King of England claims sovereignty over France, and, to that end, he declares war against the French. The first half concentrates on Edward’s determination to have an extramarital affair with the Countess of Salisbury (Novack), despite her devotion to her husband (Razzino).
Authorship notwithstanding, the script definitely qualifies as a lesser work, but Banno’s staging displays considerable panache, setting the story in modern times. One of the cleverest touches is David C. Ghatan’s set, which is deliberately modeled after the iconic war room set in Stanley Kubrick’s film “Dr. Strangelove.”
“Edward III” is WSC’s most entertaining presentation since its version of Tom Stoppard’s “Hapgood.” Whatever its pedigree, it makes for an invigorating theatrical experience and a perfect vehicle for its leading actor.
‘Edward III’
The Washington Shakespeare Company’s production of “Edward III” runs through April 29
» Venue: Clark Street Playhouse, 601 S. Clark Street, Crystal City
» Performances: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays
» Tickets: $25 to $35
» More info: 703-418-4808,
www.washingtonshakespeare.org
