Montford Park Players' new season conquers the Wars of the Roses

Photo by AVLtoday

More than a hundred years after the houses of Lancaster and York laid down their arms, William Shakespeare penned nine plays depicting their monarchical struggle. Over the years, several theaters have produced an eight-play Wars of the Roses cycle (leaving out “Edward III”) — but Montford Park Players aims to best all nine.

“Our research indicated that the nine-play cycle had never before been performed in one season,” says Executive Director John Russell. “We decided to take this giant step and be the first company to perform it.”

Considered to be the oldest community-based Shakespeare theater in North America, the company is also one of only 15 to have performed all the Bard’s plays. Thus, it seems natural that it would lead this ambitious charge.

The season begins this Friday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m. with “Edward III.” The Friday, Saturday, and Sunday shows continue through Sunday, May 26. But that’s only the start — check out the season schedule to experience the full story.