Synopsis
King Lear divides his Kingdom between his daughters according to a declaration of their love for him. His eldest Goneril and Regan exaggerate their affection and inherit. His youngest daughter Cordelia speaks only the truth and is banished. So begins the tragedy of King Lear, whose dignity, sanity and finally life are torn from him by a self-seeking younger generation, ambitious for his power. What is love, what is madness, what is truth - Shakespeare explores these questions together with many others in King Lear, widely considered to be his greatest tragedy. From Minsk, Belarus. One of the world s bravest ensembles, Belarus Free Theatre was established in 2005 by Nikolai Khalezin and Natalia Kaliada. The group has no official premises, nor any other facilities. Their performances in Belarus are held secretly, in small private apartments, the location of which, due to the risk of persecution, must constantly be changed. In their work, they demonstrate a spiritual resilience and an irreverent humour in the face of their own dilemma. Despite suffering every form of intimidation and harassment, BFT continue to produce great theatre that is recognised internationally. Performed in Belarusian. Part of Globe to Globe 2012 - World Shakespeare Festival