Evento

National Theatre Live: Timon of Athens

by William Shakespeare

5 STARS Daily Telegraph, Evening Standard, Independent on Sunday

4 STARS Daily Mail, Guardian, Financial Times, Independent, Time Out

'A fable about the toxic nature of a ruthlessly commercialised world.' Guardian

'Bold, incisive revival ... an urgent play for today.' Daily Telegraph

'A lacerating parable for our troubled times. A characteristically terrific performance from Simon Russell Beale.' Evening Standard

'Fast, venomously satirical.' Daily Mail

'Nicholas Hytner has seized the cynical, disillusioned day. He hurls Timon into the 21st century and finds it lands there almost perfectly.' Daily Telegraph

'It's a wonder we've had to wait until now to get a revival for Timon of Athens... Nicholas Hytner's production is so relevant... almost flawless.' Time Out

'An exhilarating production featuring a compelling performance by Simon Russell Beale' Guardian

Broadcast live to cinemas around the world on 1 November and varying dates internationally. Tickets will be on sale soon, sign up for email updates to be kept up to date with the latest news and information.

Simon Russell Beale takes the title role in Shakespeare's strange fable of consumption, debt and ruin, written in collaboration with Thomas Middleton.

Wealthy friend to the rich and powerful, patron of the arts, ostentatious host, Timon of Athens is surrounded by free-loaders and sycophants. He vastly outspends his resources but, finding his coffers empty, reassures his loyal steward that all will be well.

Methinks I could deal kingdoms to my friends,
And ne'er be weary.

When he calls upon his associates, instead of offering help, they hang him out to dry. After a final, vengeful banquet, Timon withdraws to a literal and emotional wasteland, living off roots and pouring curses on a morally bankrupt Athens.

I am Misanthropos and hate mankind.
For my part, I do wish thou wert a dog
That I might love thee something.

Simon Russell Beale has been described by the Independent as 'the greatest stage actor of his generation.' His recent work for the National Theatre includes London Assurance, Much Ado About Nothing and Collaborators, John Hodge's Olivier Award-winning new play in which he portrayed Stalin.