The James Plays Trilogy – James I: The Key Will Keep The Lock at Festival Theatre – Adelaide Festival Review

Festival Theatre, Fri 26 Feb The James Plays have been compared to those of Shakespeare and his English Kings. This trilogy centering on Scotland’s Kings, the first in the series being James I, is most definitely not Shakespeare. As riveting as Shakespeare? Yes. As full of mayhem and manipulation? Yes. But this is new. This is exciting. This has been designed for our audiences today. From 18 to 80+ year olds, everyone, or at least those who can handle swearing, can truly enjoy them. Masterpiece isn’t a stretch! From the moment the lights dim, we, the audience, are transported to time in Scottish history with Kings and Queens whose stories are virtually unknown to us now; a time of kidnap and ransom, wealth and poverty, compassion and cruelty. Not one moment goes by where your eyes can be torn away from the stage. There is no time for your thoughts to wander; these characters are engaging, raw, hilarious, thought provoking and an absolute privilege to watch. For those with a passion for Shakespeare, this is for you. For those who are more familiar with Game Of Thrones, this is also for you! James I is by far the best play I’ve seen. Bridie Longhorn The James Plays – James I: The Key Will Keep The Lock continues at Festival Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre, from 12pm until Sun 28 Feb. Book at BASS on 131 246 and bass.net.au. Click HERE to purchase your tickets. Image courtesy of Tommy Ga-Ken Wan