Relish a modern take on a classic play by William Shakespeare, as it is brought to the stage by Tony-winning director Sam Gold. See one of the most famous tragedies come alive on the Broadway stage, with an extremely talented ensemble cast and score supporting it.
Why Watch King Lear
Why Watch King Lear
A stage adaptation of the legendary tragedy by Shakespeare, King Lear, directed by Sam Gold promises to bring the renowned work to life. A Tony Award winner, Sam Gold has ample experience in bringing classic plays to the Broadway stage, such as Othello, A Doll’s House and Threepenny Opera. A star-studded cast, consisting of gems such as Tony, Emmy and Academy Award winner, Glenda Jackson, Golden Globe winner Ruth Wilson, Tony Award winner Jayne Houdyshell, Pedro Pascal of Game of Thrones fame guarantees an unforgettable experience. Glenda Jackson plays King Lear, often considered to be one of the most arduous roles that can be taken up. A show-stopper in every role that she has taken up, Jackson received a Critics Circle Award for Best Shakespearean Performance for the lead role in King Lear at The Old Vic. Her performance at the Old Vic production was praised for being powerful, while portraying the vulnerability that accompanies Lear’s age The original score is composed by one of the most erstwhile composers of the 20th century, Philip Glass, as you are in for a night of classic theatre!
The Story
Lear, king of Britain is stepping down from the throne. He has three daughters and must split the kingdom equally among them. He tests his daughters by questioning them about their love for him. The two older daughters, Rogan and Goneril proclaim their love for the King immediately. The youngest daughter, Cordelia, who is the King’s favorite, says that she does not have any words to describe her love for her father. King Lear is furious with her answer and immediately disowns Cordelia. Cordelia flees with the king of France, who hopes to marry her. King Lear slowly realizes that he has made a terrible mistake, as his dear daughters quickly turn on him. Unable to believe that his dear daughters have betrayed him, Lear begins to grow insane. Elsewhere, the Earl of Gloucester is made to believe by his illegitimate son, Edmund that the Earl’s legitimate son, Edgar is planning to assassinate the Earl. Follow the journeys of these characters, as they attempt to uncover the truth and set things straight once and for all.
Good for
Fans of Classic Literature | Lovers of Shakespearean Dramas
Cancellation policy
Cancellation policy
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go
Show Details
Show Timings
Tue, Thu & Fri | 7:00 PM |
Wed & Sat | 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM |
Sun | 2:00 PM |
Duration
TBC
Leading Roles
Glenda Jackson as King Lear
Ruth Wilson as Cordelia
Pedro Pascal as Edmund
Directed by
Sam Gold
Music Score by
Philip Glass
Costume Design by
Ann Roth
Additional Information
Audience
TBC
Available Facilities
In-house bar
Coat check
Wheelchair accessible
Seating
Cort Theatre has a seating capacity of 1,082. For tips on how to choose the best seats, you can refer to our Cort Theatre Seating Chart Guide.
Outside Food
Strictly prohibited. If you'd like to grab a meal before or after the show, check out our guide to the 30 Best Restaurants in the Theater District.
Dress Code
Smart and casual wear is recommended. Keep in mind, the theatre is air conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly.
My tickets
My tickets
Your e-tickets can be exchanged for physical tickets with our uniformed Headout hosts outside the theater.