The short yet tumultuous reign of "Richard III" takes to the Illinois Shakespeare Festival stage in one of Shakespeare's earliest historical works.

Misshapen at birth, the bitter Richard, Duke of Gloucester, reveals deep jealousy of his brother, King Edward IV, and describes with unbridled passion his plans to take over the throne.

With veiled apology, Richard explains that his cruel fate is to prove a villain, having been "rudely stamped and unfinish'd."

He then sets forth to eliminate all that stand in his way, first planning the murder of his brother Clarence, the imprisonment of his nephews, and the beheading of Lord Hastings, who opposes him.

On the eve of his final battle, Richard's increasing paranoia manifests itself in visions of the ghosts of those whose lives he ended who appear to him in his slumber and order him to "despair and die."

Realizing his isolation, and consumed with self-loathing, a somewhat remorseful Richard meets his end at the hands of the Earl of Richmond, who ascends to the throne as Henry VII, thus restoring England to place of "smooth-faced peace."

Under the direction of Henry Woronicz, Kevin Rich gives an outstanding, layered performance in the title role, offering a cruel and complicated individual whose despicable acts are not only understood but very nearly forgiven, balancing the madness of Richard with an often humorous humanness that is captivating.

The grieving women of royal lineage implore compassion, led by Josephine Hall as the banished Queen Margaret, widow of Henry VI, who foretells of Edward's undoing. Lori Adams delivers a mother's palpable grief as The Duchess of York, as does Michelle Shupe in her role as Queen Elizabeth.

Costume designer Dorothy Marshall Englis gives this production a somewhat contemporary feel by utilizing Victorian dress. The look is stunning, with clean lines and an air of nobility without all the pomp and fuss.

An expert ensemble rounds out this artful production, which has a limited run at the festival this year.

Patricia Stiller is a freelance writer who reviews plays for The Pantagraph.

Richard III

Venue: Illinois Shakespeare Festival at Ewing Manor, Bloomington

Times and dates: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Tuesday and Aug. 5, 8 p.m. Aug. 1 and 7

Cost: $20 to $40

Running time: 2 hr. 48 min., including 15-min. intermission