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BrumHour saw King Lear at the invite of The RSC.
By Dave Massey
First Encouters: King Lear with The RSC: Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐”A great introduction to Shakespeare!”
Directed by Justine Themen
In this 80-minute production, The King (Oliver Senton) sets a test for his daughter’s loyalty. Goneril (Leona Allen), Regan (Vigs Otite) both pass, but youngest daughter Cordelia (Nkhanise Phiri) fails the test and is banished.
The actors appear in troubador style, as a travelling musical group of actors, and for young people, this can be enchanting. It was filled with music, funny moments, and dark themes. Nkhanise Phiri also welcomes the young audience to the theatre space, playing the fool, just as the story begins.
The production doesn’t shy away from the harsher moments of King Lear, but the pace of the production doesn’t dwell on them either. Most of the audience watched throughout, even though, at times, it was pretty loud and very fun. Actors address the audience and, in character, ask them questions.
The costumes are fun, the music is dramatic, and the performances really pulled the young audience’s attention. Deven Modha is the biggest scene stealer out of the company though at times he has tough competition.
After touring, King Lear will head to the RSC’s Swan Theatre in Stratford-Upon-Avon across half term from 23rd to 31st October. Book tickets here: rsc.org.uk/first-encounters-king-lear.
