When
31st August - 3rd November 2012
Where
Almeida Theatre
See Jonathan Pryce in the title role of King Lear at Almeida Theatre when Shakespeare's epic tragedy appears as part of the World Shakespeare Festival.
Iconic tragedy
Considered by many to be Shakespeare's greatest tragedy, the production of King Lear at Almeida Theatre sees the award winning actor Jonathan Pryce take to the stage as the vain king who is forced from power and begins a descent into madness. Michael Attenborough, the artistic director of the Almeida Theatre, will direct the cast for this landmark production.
The price of pride
Flattered by the false praise of his daughters Regan and Goneril, Lear is outraged when his youngest, Cordelia, says that she loves him simply as a daughter should. It is only after Lear casts her out of his kingdom that he realises his mistake, and when his is deprived of his throne the audience must watch him become increasing frail and prone to madness. The production of King Lear at Almeida Theatre is bound to be a highlight event in the theatre lover's calendar, during a season of high profile performances of Shakespearean plays across London the the UK.
Festival events
As well as the production of King Lear at Almeida Theatre, the World Shakespeare Festival features special performances of plays at The Roundhouse, the National Theatre, The Barbican and Shakespeare's Globe. Plays to be performed include The Comedy of Errors, The Tempest and Cymbeline, and there are also new works inspired by Shakespeare's genius.
World Shakespeare Festival London
Jonathan Pryce
A seasoned stage actor, Jonathan Pryce is also recognisable to film and television audiences due to his appearances in hits such as Cranford, Pirates of the Caribbean, Tomorrow Never Dies and Evita. The Tony and Olivier award winner has previously appeared at the National Theatre in My Fair Lady, and also starred in a Royal Shakespeare Company production of Measure for Measure.
The production of King Lear at Almeida Theatre takes place from 31st August - 3rd November 2012. Tickets go on sale to Almeida Members on Monday 3rd October 2011, with tickets for the general public available from 24th October 2011.
For more information and to book tickets once they become available, call the Almeida Theatre box office on 020 7359 4404.