THE turbulent life of one of the finest actors who ever lived will be played out at the Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond - on the same stage where the original star performed just over two centuries ago.

The Dramatic Exploits of Edmund Kean charts the rise and decline of the great 19th century actor in a remarkable one-man show written and performed by award-winning Royal Shakespeare Company actor Ian Hughes, who brings the show to Richmond on Sunday, March 4, at 7.30pm.

After years of hardship as a strolling player, Kean was catapulted to stardom following his performance as Shylock at Drury Lane in 1814.

He soon became the most popular actor of his day, electrifying audiences with his performances in Shakespeare. Yet within a few years, his erratic behaviour, fuelled by drink, ensured audiences remembered him for all the wrong reasons.

His time at Richmond was pivotal in his career. He performed with Samuel Butler’s company – the man who built the theatre in 1788 and was manager there until his death in 1812 – some time between 1808 and 1812, playing parts such as a Walking Gentleman, Harlequin and Octavian in Colman’s Mountaineers.

Butler spotted his talent and paid for his stage coach ticket to take a job in London. Years later, Kean repaid Butler’s kindness by returning to star for a few nights with the company, now run by Butler’s wife, in Richmond and Northallerton.

Kean followed the more natural style of acting made fashionable by the 18th century Shakespearian actor David Garrick (1717-79). Before Garrick, actors tended to stand still on the stage and proclaim their lines.

Ian Hughes spent over a decade at the RSC and has had a long-standing fascination with this acting legend.

“Kean’s is undoubtedly one of the most unique talents that British theatre has ever produced and his life was both exciting and heart-breaking," he said. "To be able to perform this play based on his life, in the same spot where he once stood, will be an incredible experience.”

Hughes was the winner of the first Ian Charleson /Royal National Theatre Award for Best Actor presented to him by Sir Alec Guinness. His many TV appearances include Dr Who, Robin Hood, Torchwood, Alienists, Ransom, Gavin & Stacey, Mutual Friends and Stella.

For tickets, call the box office on 01748 825252 or via georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk.