What to do when a country's ruler talks gibberish, makes wild assertions, and appears to be losing his mind? The strait-jacket helps for a while in Alan Bennett's 1991 play, in which George III loses his marbles soon after England has lost its American colonies in the late 1700s. Inspired by the historical reality, The Madness of George III makes no allusion to any contemporary head of state...not that we don't draw them anyway. As amusingly directed by Kevin Bennett, this production is especially stunning to look at thanks to the sumptuous costumes designed by Christopher David Gauthier. It has also been cleverly staged so that some audience members can choose to sit in boxes on the stage. Here, they can get a close look at George's tinkle and turds as passed around the by the court physician. The handsome setting created by designer Ken MacDonald resembles an 18th century theater. This play is aptly being presented in the Royal George Theatre. Now that we are all getting used to color-blind casting and women playing men, be comforted that our George is played superbly by Tom McCamus, Not sure how much of a pleasure it is to watch him in action as his sanity deteriorates, but his stamina is notable. There isn't much of a story here unless you care about the predictable plotting and obligatory political intrigue that keeps twelve actors busy changing wigs and costumes playing multiple roles. Having just seen Andre Sills careen through An Octoroon, it was nice to see him more stately as Prime Minister William Pitt. The rest of the supporting cast make too much of courtly affectations bordering on camp. McCamus gives another standout performance in St. Joan. Spotting the players in other plays is part of the joy at Shaw.
