Nearly Lear January 17, 2008

What if the great and tragic story of King Lear were to be told by the King’s closest companion- his own fool?
This is Magpye Theatre’s Nearly Lear. Seen through the eyes of Lear’s devoted clown, Norris, we travel through a story that is not only poignant and tragic, but also mischievous, tender, and achingly funny. Hamnett plays Norris, who, in good Shakespearean tradition, is actually Noreen, disguised as a boy. Fiercely devoted to the King and his daughter, Cordelia, Norris/Noreen is devastated by the tragedy that befalls them. Until her Father suggests that she go out and share this story with the world.

What follows then, is Norris/Noreen’s telling of the story. Borrowing generously from Shakespeare’s play, and helping herself liberally to his glorious language, she mixes sorrow and concern at the tragic nature of what she has to relate with her own infectious delight at playing out the characters and situations that have been so close to her heart.

An emotional roller-coaster ride that will enchant both lovers of Shakespeare as well as Bard neophytes, Nearly Lear confounds expectations of what a Shakespeare play ‘should’ be by blending exuberant storytelling, music, song, film as well as Shakespeare’s rich poetic text to take its audience firmly into the heart of this great story. It is a family show best suited for ages 10 and up.

Winchester Street Theatre, 8pm Wed-Sat, 2pm Sun matinee. TICKETS $15 ($10 S/S), PWYC Sun, PHONE 416-703-2773 x210