Following their co-production of All My Sons in 2013, the Royal Exchange Theatre and Talawa Theatre Company once again join forces to present King Lear, in association with Birmingham Repertory Theatre.
Talawa artistic director Michael Buffong directs stage and screen actor Don Warrington in one of Shakespeare’s most iconic roles, at the Exchange from April 1 to May 7 and at Birmingham Repertory Theatre from May 16 to 28.
It’s presented as part of the celebrations for Talawa’s 30th anniversary year, and 400 years after the death of Shakespeare.
For 30 years, Talawa has cultivated emerging and established black artists, to enrich the cultural life of all.
Don Warrington says: “the truth is it never occurred to me to play Lear until Sarah Frankcom suggested it. I had just been working with Michael on All My Sons at the Royal Exchange.
"Michael and I spent some time discussing Lear, and it felt exciting to have the opportunity to tackle something equally challenging. At the time it seemed crazy to say no, now… I wonder if I’m just crazy.”