Mark Rylance returns to the Globe for the first time since leaving in 2005 to play one of Shakespeare’s most electrifying villains, Richard III.

Richard, Duke Of Gloucester, is determined that he should wear the crown of England. He has already despatched a King and a Prince, now all that stands in his way are two credulous brothers and two helpless nephews – the Princes in the Tower. Nothing will stand in his way, no one means more than the crown.

Monstrous, but theatrically electric, Richard is Shakespeare’s most charismatic, self-delighting villain, revelling at every moment in his homicidal, hypocritical journey to absolute power.

Following in the vein of the Globe’s all-male production of Twelfth Night, Richard III will feature an all-male cast and explore clothing, music, dance and settings conceivable in around 1593.

Mark Rylance is one of the country’s leading actors, garnering critical praise throughout an inimitable career that has seen him win top awards from around the world.