RSC Live: King John is a production of William Shakespeare's play King John by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). The play tells the story of a tumultuous period in English history, in which Richard the Lionheart dies and his younger brother John becomes king. John faces challenges from both foreign powers, such as France, and domestic adversaries, including his own family members and the English nobility.
The play is rarely performed, but this production by director Eleanor Rhode offers a fresh perspective on the story, emphasizing its relevance to modern audiences. Rhode's first production for the RSC, it features an ensemble cast led by Rosie Sheehy as King John. The production uses a minimalist set and contemporary costumes to focus attention on the performances and the text.
RSC Live: King John was first broadcast live from the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon on April 11, 2019, as part of the RSC's Live From Stratford-upon-Avon series. It has since been released on DVD and streaming platforms. Reviews of the production were generally positive, with critics praising its clarity and intensity.
