A SOUTHAMPTON theatre group is taking an edgy ‘suitcase’ production on tour around Hampshire village halls.

Maskers Theatre Company is presenting Shakespeare’s Richard II as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Open Stages project, which celebrates the playwright in a unique way.

The production has a minimalist set, based on wooden step ladders, and distressed costumes.

Re-forging the bond with professional theatre, the project aims to embrace, develop, and celebrate amateur theatre.

Entries from all over the country were whittled down to under 100, and Maskers was chosen.

Richard II brings into sharp focus the last two years of a turbulent 22 year reign, which swung violently between the people's adulation for God's anointed ruler and their fear of a vicious, spiteful despot.

After a three-night run at the Southampton Maskers Studio Theatre, the company is now taking it on tour.

The Wallops Village Hall is first tonight, followed by Broughton Village Hall tomorrow, Winchester Discovery Centre on April 24, Salisbury’s Studio Theatre on April 25, Landford Village Hall on May 1, Hanger Farm Arts Centre in Totton on May 2, Berry Theatre in Hedge End on May 8 and Northney Village Hall in Hayling Island on May 9.