As a political thriller goes it's a classic plot: power plays, scandal, betrayals, and a star in the ascendant. Award-winning playwright, Rona Munro's historic 'James Plays', which are coming to the Auckland Festival in March 2016, have it all.
Set in Scotland's bloody 15th century, the trilogy explores the reigns of three King James of Scotland. James I, II, & III. Each play stands alone as a cracking history of a neglected period; viewed together they shine a new light on the country's past and future.
The performance is a collaboration between The National Theatre of Scotland, and The National Theatre of Great Britain.
Writer of the plays Rona Munro Talks to Kathryn Ryan about the plays.
About the Plays:
James I: The Key Will Keep The Lock
Prisoner of England for 18 years, James is delivered back to his homeland, with an English bride, to reign as James I of Scotland. Returning to a troubled nation, he faces terrible choices if he is to save himself, his Queen and the crown.
James II: Day of the Innocents
Crowned King at aged six, James II is a puppet in a vicious game between Scotland's most powerful families. As he approaches adulthood, James must fight for his crown while the nightmares of his childhood torment him.
James III: The True Mirror
Charismatic, cultured, and obsessed with grand gestures, James III is loved and loathed by his nation. Scotland's future may lie with his resourceful and resilient wife, Margaret of Denmark. Can she rescue a struggling nation?
