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Part 1

Richard Wilson takes on the mighty Shakespearean King who foolishly gives away his kingdom, dividing his wealth and power equally between his daughters with tragic results.

As he approaches his 89th birthday, Richard Wilson plays King Lear for the first time in his life. Richard will be the oldest-ever British actor to take on the role.

This is Shakespeare's powerful meditation on power, greed and the advancement of old age.

King Lear, in preparation for his old age, divides his power and land between his daughters Goneril and Regan, who flatter him with promises of love and devotion. The King's third daughter, Cordelia, is offered a third of his kingdom also, but refuses to parrot her sisters oleaginous attention. She instead offers the rightful duty and respect of a daughter. Lear is furious and subsequently disowns her.

Regan and Goneril subsequently break promises to host Lear and his entourage, so instead he opts to become homeless and destitute, and gradually loses his mind. Neither his followers or friends (Kent and the Fool) can persuade him to more reasonable actions. Meanwhile, Gloucester is duped by his infamous bastard son, Edmund.

Cast:
King Lear Richard Wilson
Goneril Greta Scacchi
Regan Tamsin Greig
Cordelia Phoebe-Loveday Raymond
Gloucester Toby Jones
Edmund David Tennant
Edgar Jos Vantyler
Kent Matthew Marsh
Fool Trevor Fox
Cornwall Joseph Kloska
Albany Will Harrison-Wallace
Oswald Akbar Kurtha
Burgundy/Doctor Adam Jessop
France/Herald. Robin Morrissey
Old Man Hugh Ross

Music played by Steven Isserlis and Irène Duval

Produced and Directed by Clive Brill
A Brill Production for ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Radio 4

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57 minutes

Last on

Sunday 15:00

Broadcast

  • Sunday 15:00

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