Ian McKellen Stars

Decorated actor and British national treasure Sir Ian McKellen stars in the titular role of King Lear this winter, at the Yard Theatre's first season in its newly rebuilt Hackney Wick venue. This new production is a re-imagined version of the Shakespeare classic, from award-winning playwright Simon Stephens (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time) and The Yard's artistic director and founder Jay Miller. Sir Ian is no stranger to Lear and the plays permutations and possibilities, having played both the title role and supporting roles in multiple previous productions, most recently in 2017 at the Chichester Festival. Having recently collaborated with playwright Stephens on his mixed reality play An Ark, the pair continue their chemistry on what is set to be a fascinating new take on the character.

Ian McKellen Stars

Decorated actor and British national treasure Sir Ian McKellen stars in the titular role of King Lear this winter, at the Yard Theatre's first season in its newly rebuilt Hackney Wick venue. This new production is a re-imagined version of the Shakespeare classic, from award-winning playwright Simon Stephens (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time) and The Yard's artistic director and founder, Jay Miller. Sir Ian is no stranger to Lear and the play's permutations and possibilities, having played both the title role and supporting roles in multiple previous productions, most recently in 2017 at the Chichester Festival. Having recently collaborated with playwright Stephens on his mixed reality play An Ark, the pair continue their chemistry on what is set to be a fascinating new take on the character.

What is the Story?

When the aging Lear finally decides to retire from rule and divide his kingdom among his three daughters, what he imagined to be a straightforward process is thrown into complete anarchy, as his grasping family all conspire to drive him out of his mind. Consumed by the fierce storm of treachery, Lear finds that his life hangs in the balance and embarks on a perilous journey to save his soul from damnation. What is a king to do as the vultures circle?