A group of veteran actors and fresh talent will present William Shakespeare's "King Lear," a tragedy of love, power, deception and loss, at Chase Park Theatre, 4701 N. Ashland Ave., on Nov. 18, and 19, and Dec. 2, 3, 9, and 10, at 7:30 p.m.; as well as Nov. 20, and Dec. 4, at 1 p.m.
A rich powerful old King Lear (Fred Wellish) abdicates, divides his kingdom, exiles his honest counselor Kent (Peter Esposito)and disowns his favorite daughter Cordelia (Tiffany Bedwell). He is turned out into the cold, betrayed by his wicked daughters Goneril and Regan (Janelle Mims and Cyndi Rhoads), and driven into madness. A terrible storm rains torrents and the poverty of the people is revealed. The loyal Gloucester (John Zimmerman) trusts the wrong choice of two sons (David Sellers and Joshua Murphy).
The ensemble also includes Timothy Tsurutani, Rory Jobst, John Hornick, Hans Debartolo, Michael Zubb, Quran Zachary, Steven Simms, Larice Woods, Michael Jones, Eric Bell, Elise Newman and Julia Wellish. With extramarital affairs that bring disaster, a witty fool, and heroic sword fights, this two and a half hour version of "King Lear" moves swiftly to its end.
Light design is by Richard Norwood, sound design by Keith Fort. The Assistant Director is Duane Davy and Stage Manager is Kate Harrington. The Chase Park production will feature a set designed by Jeff Bauer, elaborate costume designs by Ameika Johnson, Lauren Petty, Doneisha Fulton and Christine Jones, and sword fights choreographed by Dave Skvarla.
Tickets are $10; however, tickets for children, seniors, students, actors, and those in groups of 20, are $8. Tickets may be reserved by calling the box office at (312) 742-4701 and purchased at Chase Park prior to the show. |
