King Lear is given a magnificent modern-day interpretation by director Joseph Hanreddy and the excellent Great Lakes Theatre creative team. Hanreddy imaginatively stages the show and keeps the tension mounting from the very first scene. Linda Buchanan's solid set design is impressive, even more so when it begins crumbling like Lear's psyche. Martha Hally cleverly costumes the cast in contemporary clothing. Paul Miller's luminous lighting creates storms and shadows, while the powerful sound design is the work of Rob Milburn and Michael Bodeen.
Hanreddy has also assembled an intriguing ensemble of seasoned players. Aled Davies commands the stage as Lear, even when the character is not in command of his senses. Laura Perrotta, Robyn Cohen and Cassandra Bissell as the three sisters share in their fictional father's passion and strength as they each pursue what is important to them.
The rest of the acting company provide vivid and versatile performances as well. Stephen Mitchell Brown and Dustin Tucker portray Lear's disparate and desperate sons-in-law; Dougfred Miller, David Anthony Smith, and J. Todd Adams make up the equally out-of-control Gloucester clan; Neil Brookshire and Ben Kemper are regal as in their roles as royal representatives; and Tom Ford provides much-needed comic relief as everyone's favorite Fool.
Completing the cast of this haunting history play are intense and inventive ensemble members Peter Gosik, Gabriel Brown, Leah Jennings, Jillian Kates, Sarah Masterson, Mary Mondlock, Katie Prouix and Colton Ryan...
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