RSC CASTING UPDATE FOR GREGORY DORAN’S PRODUCTION OF KING LEAR WITH ANTONY SHER
KING LEAR
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Gregory Doran
Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon: 23 May – 9 June 2018
Following its acclaimed performances during the 2016 repertoire in both Stratford-upon-Avon and at the Barbican in London, RSC Artistic Director Gregory Doran revives his production of King Lear, with RSC Honorary Associate Artist Antony Sher returning in the title role.
Antony Sher reprises his performance in one of the greatest parts written by Shakespeare in this production which will enjoy a limited run in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre (RST) after touring to New York to play at the Harvey Theater at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) in April.
Along with many other members of the original cast, David Troughton and Antony Byrne return to play Gloucester and Kent respectively. David, who recently became an RSC Honorary Associate Artist, will also play Falstaff in The Merry Wives of Windsor in the RST next season. Antony, an RSC Associate Artist, is currently playing Antony in Antony and Cleopatra at the Barbican.
Mimi Ndiweni joins the company as Cordelia. Mimi’s previous RSC credits include Wendy and Peter Pan, The Taming of the Shrew and Revolt. She said. Revolt Again.
The cast also includes: Romayne Andrews (Regan’s Servant), James Clyde (Cornwall), James Cooney (Regan’s Servant), Patrick Elue (Burgundy), Kevin N Golding (Curan), Tracy-Anne Green (Regan’s Servant), Nia Gwynne (Goneril), Oliver Johnstone (Edgar), Whitney Kehinde (Regan’s Messenger), Byron Mondahl (Oswald), Esther Niles (Regan’s Messenger), John Omole (Lear’s Gentleman), Clarence Smith (Albany), Buom Tihngang (Edmund), Graham Turner (Fool), Ewart James Walters (Old Man) and Kelly Williams (Regan).
The creative team for King Lear remains the same as in the original production, with set and costumes designed byNiki Turner; lighting by Tim Mitchell, movement by Michael Ashcroft. Sound is by Jonathan Ruddick and music is composed by Ilona Sekacz. The fights are by Bret Yount.
Mad King/Fat Knight – Paintings and Drawings by Antony Sher
PACCAR Room, Level 2, Royal Shakespeare Theatre
from 19 May 2018. Free entry.
From 19 May the RSC will, for the first time, host an exhibition of the works of art created by Antony Sher. Performing with the RSC for over 35 years, Antony has taken inspiration from the rehearsal room and on-stage performances, creating a captivating account of his experiences through compelling artwork.
With large scale oil paintings, drawings and doodles, the display of over 40 works of art will offer a fascinating peek into the theatrical process, giving an insight into Antony’s preparation for two of his most memorable roles, Sir John Falstaff (Henry IV) and King Lear.
Artworks from the exhibition will be sold, and part of the profits will go to the Stitch In Time campaign to restore and redevelop the RSC’s Costume Workshop. Antony Sher is a generous member of the Costume Workshop Council. For more information on how to support this campaign please visit rsc.org.uk/stitchintime
In Conversation with Antony Sher
Royal Shakespeare Theatre
7 June, 5.30pm
On Thursday 7 June 2018 at 5.30pm there will be an In Conversation event with Antony Sher in the RST to celebrate the publication of his new book Year of the Mad King: The Lear Diaries (published by Nick Hern Books).
Following on from Sher’s previous book Year of the Fat Knight: The Falstaff Diaries - which followed his development of his role as Falstaff in Henry IV Parts I and II (part of the RSC’s King and Country season directed by Doran) - this book is based on Antony’s experience performing King Lear in Doran’s original 2016 production. Year of the Mad King provides a first-hand insight into the research, rehearsal and development of his Lear. The event will be followed by a book signing.
Notes to Editors
For further information, please contact philippa.harland@rsc.org.uk 020 7845 0512
Tickets (RSC in Stratford) 01789 403493
Due to the brief run at the RST, there is no official press night, but if you require press tickets please contact dean.asker@rsc.org.uk or 01789 412660
The RSC Acting Companies are generously supported by THE GATSBY CHARITABLE FOUNDATION and THE KOVNER FOUNDATION
The RSC is supported using public funding by Arts Council England
The work of the RSC Literary Department is generously supported by THE DRUE HEINZ TRUST
J.P. Morgan is the lead sponsor of King Lear USA
The BP £5 ticket scheme for 16 – 25 year olds gives access to £5 tickets for all RSC productions whether we are performing in Stratford-upon-Avon, London or on tour. Tickets can be booked in advance on the phone, online or in person with some available for sale on the day of the performance. The scheme is supported by Project Partner, BP.
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