National Theatre Live in HD presents William Shakespeare's King Lear | Press Releases

Starring Simon Russell Beale

Monday, May 12, 2014
2 p.m. (encore), and 7 p.m. (encore)
Fairfield University's Quick Center for the Arts

Image: King Lear Fairfield University's Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts presents National Theatre Live's encore presentations in High Definition of William Shakespeare's "King Lear," starring Simon Russell Beale and directed by Sam Mendes. Broadcasts take place at 2 p.m. (encore), and 7 p.m. (encore), on Monday, May 12, 2014, at Fairfield University's Quick Center for the Arts. Tickets are $25, $20 seniors, $15 students/children.

Academy Award-winner Sam Mendes ( James Bond: Skyfall , American Beauty ) returns to the National Theatre to direct Simon Russell Beale ( Timon of Athens , Collaborators ) in the title role of Shakespeare's tragedy. An aged king decides to divide his kingdom between his three daughters, according to which of them is most eloquent in praising him. His favorite, Cordelia, says nothing. Lear's world descends into chaos.

This critically acclaimed production is called "riveting," by the Daily Express. "Simon Russell Beale is extraordinary." Time Out calls the cast "beyond superlative. A literally awe-inspiring production." The Daily Telegraph describes the show as "genuinely gripping." And The Times adds: "Simon Russell Beale proves once again why he is one of our great actors."

National Theatre Live is the National Theatre's groundbreaking project to broadcast the best of British theatre live from the London stage in High Definition to cinemas across the globe. National Theatre Live, launched in June 2009, currently reaches an audience of over 1.5 million people in 500 venues around the world. Each live broadcast is filmed in front of a live audience in the theatre, with cameras carefully positioned throughout the auditorium, giving cinema audiences the 'best seat in the house' view of each production.

Tickets are available through the Quick Center Box Office: (203) 254-4010, or toll-free 1-877-ARTS-396 (1-877-278-7396). Tickets can also be purchased online at www.quickcenter.com .

The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts is located on the campus of Fairfield University at 1073 North Benson Road in Fairfield, Connecticut. Entrance to the Quick Center is through the Barlow Road gate at 200 Barlow Road. Free, secure parking is available. Access for people with disabilities is available throughout the Quick Center for audience members and performers. Hearing amplification devices are available upon request at the Box Office. Fairfield University is located off exit 22 of Interstate-95. For further information and directions, call (203) 254-4010 or 1-877-278-7396, or visit www.quickcenter.com .