Richard III has been compared to many infamous dictators in history and called every nasty name in the book. He has been described as a cruel Machiavellian royal whose bitterness and self-loathing drove his brutal rise to power.

There are those, however, who argue against this depiction, claiming that Richard III was not a loathsome tyrant, but in actuality, a fair and just king for his time. The truth of the matter may never be known, but one thing is for certain, it was William Shakespeare who exerted the most influence in giving this colorful character a bad rep.

The Bard conjures Richard III in his play of the same name as a morally depraved, grotesquely deformed hunchback who litters his bloody path to the crown with murdered family and kinsmen.His story is one of tyranny and the affects of one man’s machinations on society.

Intiman Theatre Artistic Director Bartlett Sher’s production of Shakespeare’s “Richard III,” remains consistent with the playwright’s description of this historical figure.

He is portrayed (brilliantly I might add, by actor Stephen Pelinski) as a seductive, evil schemer who will stop at nothing to make his vision a reality.

Though Richard III is a hideous and repugnant figure, he makes for a fascinating psychological study. But what is even more interesting to audiences is the focus on the people who surround this character. “Richard III” is not just a play about one man; rather, it is the story of a society that stands by and allows itself to be corrupted and despoiled by a despot.

As families are pitted against each other and the body count rises, tension mounts. Society is clearly enabling this villain to be a bully and the question one has to ask is, “How much more will people take before they stand up and challenge authority?”

Intiman’s production emphasizes this point beautifully and as the show heads to its breathless conclusion, it is this question that captivates viewers and keeps them at the edge of their seats, waiting for an answer.

The large ensemble cast in this play does a fine job in delineating the many roles that encompass this story. Initially, identifying who is who can be confusing because there are so many characters who comprise the various royal Houses. With time, however, this gets easier.

As Richard III, Stephen Pelinski is the embodiment of sinister ambition. He has an air of creepiness about him, which enhances his menacing presence. This gifted actor is compelling to watch, as he skillfully sways his victims and persuades them to go against their better judgment or deceptively acts the buffoon. Pelinski plays to the audience and confides in them. He forces them to know his plans, his intent to do vile misdeeds, and because they are privy to these thoughts, they squirm, uneasy with the knowledge. Pelinski commands the stage and gives a mesmerizing and powerful performance.

Other notable actors include Allen Gilmore as Richard’s naïve brother George, Duke of Clarence, Kristin Flanders as the proud, but anguished Queen Elizabeth, Michael Winters, as the shrewdly politic Duke of Buckingham and Suzanne Bouchard as the vengeful Margaret, widow of Henry VI.

The bare stage is open to view with only scaffolding present, set against a backdrop curtain of red splotches. Simple props are brought in when needed and period costumes complete the picture.

To underscore the play’s ominous tone, two onstage musicians (perched up high) provide percussion accompaniment. Their drum playing drives the action in this disturbing tragedy that remains a timeless drama. “Richard III” runs through July 15 at Intiman Theatre. For ticket information, call (206) 269-1900 or visit: www.intiman.org.