WOW! Just WOW!
King Lear and his three daughters at Belvoir Street Theatre is an epic undertaking and an epic delivery on all fronts. Colin Friels plays the title character of King Lear, and commands the stage with his presence. The story revolves around an aging King Lear and his three daughters. He is dividing up his kingdom to his daughters and this is where the drama begins.
Filled with brutal murders and back stabbing and on stage blood spurts are a delight. The stage is bare but there is so much happening on stage with all parties conspiring against each other, that you barely notice.
There are live musicians scoring the play throughout, and the drums are especially unsettling.
With modern costuming you can picture this to be a family fighting over a will, or politicians fighting for power.
A special mention to the storm scene with the lighting will dazzle you.
The play has a run time of three hours and fifteen minutes with two fifteen minute intervals. You will need the intervals to process and discuss what you are witnessing.
I personally have a love hate relationship with Shakespeare but this was thoroughly enjoyable. Even if you have a mild love of Shakespeare I truly think this is a must see.
King Lear is a tragedy, but Peter Carroll as the Fool brings hilarity in every scene he is in. A truly unique and remarkable performance which will have you belly laughing throughout.
Tom Conroy as Edgar, delivers a nuanced performance which is sure to delight. His performance is truly heartbreaking.
Brandon McClelland as Kent, (King Lears most loyal companion) gave an unwavering depiction of loyalty and strength.
Special mention to Jana Zvedeniuk who plays Regan, one of King Lear’s daughters exerted a tremendous fierceness in the role. Adding believability with every line uttered.
This show is truly an ensemble piece and every piece fit. The acting was so strong that during the scenes in Dover, I was truly transported to the cliff face and they really brought the words to life. A very well done to all the actors, and backstage crew and Eamon Flacks direction was on point!
This is one of those plays that needs to be experienced to truly grasp the monumental undertaking of such a spectacle.
And dare I say that I think Mr Shakespeare would have enjoyed his play done in the way it was.
Highly recommend this show, as someone who struggles with Shakespeare I have been converted into a fan.
Well done again to all involved.
Run don’t walk to see this show.
To book tickets to The True History Of The Life And Death Of King Lear And His Three Daughters, please visit https://belvoir.com.au/productions/king-lear/.
Photographer: Brett Boardman
