KING LEAR: 27-30 August 2026
Synopsis
Set within a contemporary social care system, King Lear reimagines Shakespeare's tragedy through the story of a community leader whose advancing dementia forces his family and professionals to confront difficult questions about care, autonomy and responsibility.
Following a hospital admission, Lear insists on choosing which daughter should manage his care — rewarding flattery over honesty, and cutting out his youngest, Cordelia. As his condition deteriorates, he loses not only independence but identity, moving between wards and assessments while control shifts to others.
A compassionate dementia nurse becomes his closest companion as family, memory and power fracture around him — with tragic consequences.
Theatre Space North East return with a hard-hitting large-cast production,, in a modern verse translation by Marcus Gardley in association with Play On Shakespeare.
📅 Thurs 27th - Sun 30th Aug 2026
📌 Southpaw Studio, Sheepfolds Stables, Sunderland, SR5 1BA
🕒 7pm (2pm matinees)
ℹ️ 100 mins approx plus 20 minute interval
💳 Pay What You Can/Donation
Credits/Cast:
Written by William Shakespeare
Translated by Marcus Gardley
Directed by Corinne Kilvington
Assistant Direction by Tom Eastwood
Partners:
