Experience the political intrigue, civilian turmoil and epic battles of 15th Century Scotland fully realised on stage with 'The James Plays'.
The trilogy follows the succession of Scottish King James I through to James III, with each play exploring the story of a different king. The plays can be seen on separate days but for fans of continuity it is possible to see the full 11-hour marathon in one go (albeit with intervals and food breaks).
After playing to full-houses around the world including the 2014 Edinburgh International Festival and London’s National Theatre of Great Britain, 'The James Plays' will form part of this year’s Adelaide Festival. Written by Rona Munro and directed by Laurie Sansom, the plays have received outstanding reviews.
If recent TV series 'Game Of Thrones' has taught us anything, it’s that audiences love political intrigue, with power struggles, brutal combat and snappy dialogue – all the better if set against a grungy mediaeval backdrop. In this regard, 'The James Plays' tick all the boxes. While one might argue it is not as thrilling without the possibility of anyone can die at any moment (James I must live at least until James II is conceived, right?) there is something special about the fact that the story of 'The James Plays' actually happened – in our world. The intimacy and excitement of superb live stage action is also something TV can’t replicate.
Andrew RothneyActor Andrew Rothney – James II – has been with 'The James Play's since its premiere season. He takes some time out from avoiding assassination to share some insight into his role and the production:
How did you first get into performance and what made you decide to pursue acting as a career path?
It was never a conscious decision, I just performed all the time. From an early age that's what I loved to do. It gave me confidence in myself and I felt that was something to keep close. Acting as career I think was an inevitability. My mind was made up and nothing could shake it.
Were you always interested in Scottish history?
Yes, however I didn't know that much about this period in history. It's all quite murky. In school we are told about William Wallace and Robert the Bruce which is about 150 years earlier. Then you would skip most of the Stewart Kings until you get to James VI of Scotland and the 1st of England. So about 400 years are missing from our curriculum. The only things I knew about the Kings before these shows were how they died.
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What does 15th Century Scotland have to interest modern audiences?
Although these might be classed as 'history plays', Rona has created people who, if you took the medieval elements out, would be no different than you or I. They want to find happiness and love. They are finding out who they are. Of course being kings and queens adds another dimension, but you see these shows to see people and how they cope with the trials of their lives. These plays I hope will show an otherwise unexplored period of history and make them contemporary in their storytelling.
What is special about 'James II'?
What makes James II special is in the way it's told. Not to give too much away but it's seen through a young child's eyes in the first half and the fall-out of that first act permeates into act two. It's very focused on the complex workings of love and trust, how that is used to protect but also to manipulate.
How did you prepare to inhabit the role of James II?
The part of James has been with me for a few years now so it's become quite easy to get into the mindset. I just focus my attention in the right way and try to be open to what happens in the moment.
I researched his life, his psychological trauma but that just gave me hints. It's good to know but when it comes down to being on stage it won't help me. The script is the only evidence you have, so I just take the role from that.
How do the James plays compare to other performances you have been involved in?These plays are an amazing endurance test. Both mentally and physically. Three-show days are an epic undertaking for everyone involved and I include the audience in that. We are all together for the day and are sharing the experience. And to take that final bow on a triple with the audience is an experience that would be hard to replicate.
'The James Plays' have been likened to 'Game Of Thrones', so... Who is your favourite 'GOT' character and why?
Maybe Tyrion Lannister. He's an underdog in so many respects.
Who is your favourite character from 'The James Plays' and why?
Without choosing my own it might have to be Balvenie played by Peter Forbes. He survives by his wits in a world dominated by brute force and he in turn is changed by his own power. He has a great journey between I and II.
Are there any similarities between your two selected characters?
Their intelligence, political skill and being underestimated.
© Manuel HarlanWho do you think would win in a contest of political intrigue (and/ or if you prefer, all-out brawl)?
I can't see the outcome of that. They would probably give each other gifts of land and booze and live a amicable existence.
What would you say to someone daunted by the length of the plays?
Of course on the face of it it sounds like a big commitment but these plays will invite you to join this day with us. We are coming over to kick arse. We want you to be part of that and share it. Come see them all in one day. There's nothing else like it. We'll see you in the bar after!
What advice would you give to your younger self/ aspiring artists?
Don't do it for fame or money, do it for the love of it. If you achieve fame or money as a result of the work then fair play but this job can be hard. You need the joy to see you through the good times and the not so good times. If you want to do it, go for it and let nothing stand in your way. Look forward to seeing you doing it!
'The James Plays Trilogy' performs Adelaide Festival Centre 26 February – 1 March as part of Adelaide Festival which runs 26 February - 14 March.
