King Lear

In order to decide how to divide his kingdom, an aging king challenges his daughters to express their love for him. The complex tragedy contains recurring themes of nature and destiny and also features one of the most gory moments in the works of Shakespeare.

First performed 400 years ago, the tragedy of King Lear remains one of the greatest plays in world drama, as Shakespeare investigates old age, mortality, family and man’s need for religious belief and the capacity to endure.

Previous RSC Artistic Director Trevor Nunn returned to the Royal Shakespeare Company to direct the plays King Lear and The Seagull. Ian McKellen returned to the RSC after 17 years to perform in the title role in Shakespeare’s epic tragedy.
King Lear  played at The Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon from 24 March - 21 June 2007, followed by a world tour that included US, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand, with a limited run at the New London Theatre to complete the performance dates.

Q&A with Romola Garai on her stage roles