King Lear at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, with David Threlfall in the title role proves to be yet another must see.

Review by Steve Cooke

Matthew Dunster’s production of King Lear at the Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, with David Threlfall in the title role is a bold reimagining of Shakespeare's tragedy.  Yet another must see; compelling and experimental, anchored by strong central performances and striking visual design.

People who know Shakespeare’s original play will become aware that Dunster has entirely cut the character of the Fool, very cleverly and effectively integrating the lines directly into Lear's own internal monologue highlighting his deteriorating mental state. 

The staging and sound  create a dynamic, claustrophobic backdrop that complements the superb acting of the whole cast.

Anna Fleischle’s set features floor cracks resembling flowing lava, complemented by Lucy Carter and Holly Khan’s  storm lighting, real rainfall on stage, and theatre shaking bomb explosions integrated with moody, unsettling music composed by singer-songwriter Nadine Shah (who also is an excellent Goneril).

One of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies King Lear tells the story of an aging king who divides his kingdom between two flattering daughters, disowns the honest one, descends into madness during a storm, and ultimately dies after the tragic downfall of his family

Threlfall's performance is mesmeric, deploying the full range of his considerable acting skills to deliver emotional depth to his portrayal of Lear's descent from commanding, tyrant-like royal authority Into vulnerability and even compassion when engaging with "Poor Tom".

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His creation of a higher pitch for the voice in his head, The Fool,  complemented by deranged hand movements is quite stunning to see.

The supporting cast are uniformly outstanding and thoroughly engaging, commanding full attention throughout with Isobel Akuwudike as Cordelia - Harry Clarke, Ned – Ed Coleman, Cornwall – Lisa Diveney, Regan – Jason Done, York – Rupert Hill, Captain – Grace Jabari, Doctor – Nicholas Karimi, Albany – Gabin Kongolo, France and Curan – Jessica Mannion, Guen and Agna – Ryan Pope, Elias – Anwar Russell, Oswald and Burgundy – Nadine Shah, Goneril – Jonathan Slinger, Gloucester – Paddy Stafford, Edmund and Tom Varey as Edgar.

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Dunster’s production also has some modern flourishes—such as an opening karaoke/dancing sequence and eroticized choreography.

The accents used by the cast are a contemporary mix including a dash of Manchester and Salford, some generic Northern, a bit of Irish and French.  

The costumes range from the exotic to the down and out, glamorous to military.

Don’t miss this opportunity to see live theatre at is best, to experience the work of artists and production team at the top of their game.

On until Sunday 15 November, 7pm with some matinees, running at approximately 3 hours with an interval.

Tickets from £12 visit  https://www.royalexchange.co.uk/event/king-lear/#performances

Royal Exchange Theatre, St Ann’s Square, Manchester M2 7DH