(Manteo, N.C., February 3, 2009) – Robert Richmond will return to direct The Lost Colony, America’s longest-running symphonic outdoor drama. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green, the drama was the first of its kind when it opened in 1937, combining song, dance and drama to tell the story of England’s famed 1587 “lost colony” and its mysterious disappearance.
“We are thrilled to welcome him back for his second season at Waterside Theatre,” said Carl V. Curnutte III, Executive Director/ Producer of The Lost Colony. “Richmond’s approach in directing the show last year was vibrant and epic in scope. I chose Richmond because he is known for directing outstanding and fresh interpretations of theatrical classics like William Shakespeare. In last year’s production he was able to make the story come to life in new ways. With his direction we plan to build upon this success.”
Originally from Hastings, England, Richmond studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. At New York’s famed Aquila Theatre, he directed over 40 productions including Romeo & Juliet, Hamlet, Twelfth Night, The Invisible Man, Agamemmnon, Othello, The Man Who Would Be King, Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Tempest, Wrath of Achilles, Much Ado About Nothing, Cyrano de Bergerac, Julius Caesar, The Iliad: Book One, and King Lear. At Carnegie Hall, he directed concert engagements of Cherubini’s Medea, Tanyev’s Oresteia, and Theodorakis’ Electra.
In theatrical circles Richmond is known for his ability to re-imagine centuries-old theatrical works for the modern audience. The English-born director has staged more than 40 productions for off-Broadway, national tours, regional theatres, universities and special engagements—including a command performance of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing for a special reception at the White House.
Richmond currently works as a visiting professor of theatre at the University of South Carolina. A sought-after lecturer and presenter, he has taught courses at Princeton, Yale, Columbia, UNC Chapel Hill and several other universities. In February at USC he will direct Skin of Our Teeth by Thorton Wilder.
Other recent projects include Hamlet at Denver Performing Arts Center with the American Conservatory Theatre. In this production Richmond made Shakespeare more immediate and accessible by staging the story in the style of a graphic novel. His theatrical approach is to inspire everyone to exceed his or her expectations. He often remarks, “We are in the pursuit of excellence.”
Can a script written in 1937 resonate with today’s audiences? Richmond thinks so. “This story goes beyond a piece of theatre— I hope to allow it to become part of the collective conscience of every generation of Americans,” he remarks. “Each day we stand on shoulders of these remarkable settles and their determination to seek a new world and a better way of life.”
Richmond likens the 70-year history of The Lost Colony’s performance to an often-played symphony. His personal challenge is to make coming to see The Lost Colony an event people will talk about for some time to come. He remarks, “I have endeavored in my career to make theatre an exciting a vibrant experience.” This year Richmond hopes to make this experience start from the moment guests arrive at the park.
Chris Seawell, Chairman of Roanoke Island Historical Association is pleased with Richmond’s return to Waterside Theatre. “His first year was amazing and I think everyone will be excited to have him back. The comments I heard last year from folks who have been involved in the drama for years were very positive. They thought his work was excellent—they really enjoyed the show.” He adds, “One of our Board members with an extensive family history in the drama commented that Robert Richmond ‘got it—he understood what Paul Green wanted to say!’”
Purchase your tickets early for the exciting opening night of the 72nd anniversary season and see first-hand Richmond’s direction. Tickets are on sale now for opening night with many reservations already taken. Reserve your seat now by calling the business office at 245-473-2127.
About The Lost Colony
The Lost Colony, presented where the real-life events occurred more than 400 years ago, uses song, dance, comedy, and special effects to tell the story and mysterious disappearance of America’s first English colony (1584-87). First staged in 1937, it is the nation’s premier and longest-running symphonic drama. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green, The Lost Colony’s 72nd anniversary season opens May 29 and plays through August 20.
For tickets and information, go to www.thelostcolony.org or call (252) 473-2127 or (252) 473-3414 (April through August). For accommodations information, visit www.outerbanks.org or call the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau at 1-877-629-4368.
