A family feud tears apart a kingdom in Shakespeare’s epic tragedy King Lear, in the Globe Theatre this Summer.

When the aged King relinquishes his empire, he divides it amongst his three daughters, promising the largest share to the one who professes to love him the most. But when the balance of power transfers to the next generation, Lear is cast out by those he trusts, embarking on a maddening quest for self-knowledge and reconciliation.

A nightmarish family drama of global proportions, King Lear forces us to face our own humanity and the profound need for compassion.

Twenty-five years after their original, ground-breaking production, internationally lauded Director, Helena Kaut-Howson, co-founder of theatre company Complicité, Marcello Magni, and ‘one of the greatest stage actors alive’ (Vanity Fair), Kathryn Hunter reunite to bring King Lear to a new generation. Kathryn reclaims the title role, with Artistic Director Michelle Terry as Cordelia and Fool.

‘The oldest hath borne most: we that are young
Shall never see so much, nor live so long’

– Act V, scene 3

Content guidance: This production contains violence, stage blood and weapons, smoke, loud noises and flame effects, depictions of murder and themes of suicide. If you would like further details on the play’s content, please contact the ticketing team on 020 7401 9919.