May 22, 2026

Drama based on Richard Burton's life opens May 22 at Ross

Harry Lawtey plays Richard Burton, a white man with dark short hair, standing in a green field in a brown suit.

Harry Lawtey plays the actor Richard Burton in a drama based on Burton's true story.

A drama based on the true story of actor Richard Burton opens May 22 at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Mary Riepma Ross Media Arts Center. 

Continuing is "Blue Heron."

Based on a remarkable true story, discover how the poor son of a miner became Richard Burton, one of the greatest actors the world has ever known, with the help of an unlikely mentor. In the Welsh town of Port Talbot, 1942, Richard Jenkins (Harry Lawtey) lives as a wayward schoolboy, caught between the pressures of his struggling family, a devastating war, and his own ambitions. However, a new opportunity arises when Richard’s natural talent for drama catches the attention of his teacher, Philip Burton (BAFTA winner Toby Jones). Taking Richard under his wing, the young man thrives thanks to Philip’s strict tutelage and the guidance of kindly landlady, Ma Smith (Academy Award nominee Lesley Manville). However, as the acting world comes within Richard’s reach, the burden of his past risks holding him back forever.

Trailer: "Mr. Burton"

"Mr. Burton" is not rated and plays through June 4.

In the late 1990s, 8-year-old Sasha and her family relocate to a new home on Vancouver Island, but their fresh start is interrupted by increasingly dangerous behavior from the eldest son, Jeremy. At wit’s end, their parents are presented with a shattering choice. Award-winning director Sophy Romvari’s feature debut is a lyrical and profound testament to the things we carry with us, masterfully chronicling the haze of a languid summer and the hyaline clarity of the moments that defined it.

Trailer: "Blue Heron"

"Blue Heron" is not rated and shows through May 28.

For more information on films, including showtimes and ticket availability, visit the Ross' website.