Richard III, Starring Ron Cephas Jones, to Play The Public Theater This Summer

Ron Cephas Jones will soon play the ruthless title monarch in Shakespeare’s Richard III, directed by Amanda Denhert at the Public Theater. It will run at the downtown venue from August 6 to 25, following a three-week tour (July 16-August 3) to New York-area audiences who have limited access to the arts as part of the theater's Mobile Shakespeare Unit.

Joining Jones on stage will be 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).

Jones recently completed a run in Atlantic Theater Company's production of Storefront Church, by John Patrick Shanley. His New York theater credits include Titus Andronicus, Satellites, Richard II and Everybody’s Ruby at the Public, as well as Wildflower, The Overwhelming, Our Lady of 121st St., Jesus Hopped the A-Train and Two Trains Running. His film credits include He Got Game, Sweet and Lowdown, Half Nelson and Across the Universe.

Richard III is one of Shakespeare’s most charismatic villains, who cuts a scorched-earth swath through the politicos, power-mongers, and even family members who stand between him and the crown. This production features scenic and costume design by Linda Roethke, and original music by director Dehnert.