David Threlfall stars in Matthew Dunster’s modern King Lear production

Matthew Dunster’s new production of King Lear features a modern setting, utilizing contemporary items such as jeans, car keys, and handguns instead of traditional period costumes. The staging, designed by Anna Fleischle, uses spangly strings to divide the stage into various locations, including a nightclub and settings representing England and France.

David Threlfall delivers a performance that emphasizes the character's senility and neurological state. In a significant departure from traditional stagings, Threlfall also performs the role of the Fool. The production also features musician Nadine Shah, who performs original compositions as part of the performance. The direction focuses heavily on dynastic dynamics and the power tactics of the younger generation.