TRAGEDIE OF LEAR by William Shakespeare (AD HOC Collective for Tragedie of Lear). At Palmerston Theatre (560 Palmerston). Runs to October 22. $28, stu/srs $20. tragedieoflear.com. Rating: NNN
While bequeathing his estate, an old king makes a rash decision and the consequences bring about his descent into madness.
Thats how Shakespeares story usually goes, but Tragedie Of Lear trades the crude idea of losing ones mind for something more specific. King Lear (Walter Borden) isnt mad, but has Lewy Body Dementia, a condition that causes memory loss, reduced mobility and hallucinations.
Director Ash Knight collaborated with neurological consultant Suvendrini Lena to incorporate the realities of Lewy Body in a truthful way.
Viewing Lears actions through this lens instead of as a lunatic king makes sense. The cruel treatment he receives from his daughters is tragic, but its not the sole cause of his behaviour and, ultimately, his decline is beyond control. To anyone who has seen an elderly family member suffer from mental illness, it may be strikingly familiar.
The literal interpretation feels authentic thanks to Bordens well-rounded performance. His Lears stately gravitas crumbles as he first doubts those around him before questioning his own grip on reality. Borden gives us a booming Lear rife with anger, fear and desperation who vividly conjures what Shakespeare calls the second childishness that old age can bring.
Hes supported by a diverse cast, though some take a while to find their footing. Standouts include Eli Hams calculating Edmund, Andrew Moodies measured Cornwall and Courtney Chng Lancaster, who plays both Lears daughter Cordelia and a very cleverly reimagined Foole.
Its great to see the underused Palmerston Theatre paired with Shakespeare. The venues close proximity to the subway line means trains can be heard intermittently rumbling underneath the stage. In this case, the sound effectively underscores Ed Hanleys percussive soundscape and Maddie Bautistas sound design, both of which help pace and intensify the production.
Lighting designer Jareth Li plays with darkness but employs too much of it. While the lack of light has interesting thematic implications, we cant always clearly see the actors faces.
Overall, Tragedie Of Lear is a thoughtful interpretation of a classic work, one which looks with honesty and compassion at aging and death.
