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Lear
Cover image for Lear

17 November 2026 - 2 January 2027

Lear

17 November 2026 - 2 January 2027

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About

Ian McKellen has performed in King Lear 708 times. None of them like this.

McKellen: I’ve organised my life, for good or bad, so that acting is the main thing I do.
Lear: My wits begin to turn—
McKellen: So if I’m not acting, what’s the point?

Built from Shakespeare’s text and every conversation they recorded making it: a new play by Simon Stephens and Jay Miller, performed by Ian McKellen and an ensemble of knights.

About endings. Refusing to stop. And what’s left when you do.




This production is generously supported by Cockayne - Grants for the Arts and London Community Foundation.
With special thanks to our production and season circle, Carolyn Ward, Fiona Clements, Georgia Oetker, Johnny Handscombe, and those who wish to remain anonymous. For information on joining our circles, email samantha@theyardtheatre.co.uk.

Members go first.

On sale next week:

Yard Residents - Tuesday 3 November, noon
Yard Regulars - Wednesday 4 November, noon
General sale - Thursday 5 November, noon

BECOME A MEMBER

Team

Cast

Ian Mckellen
    Taylor Russell
    • Cordelia

    Creative

    Full cast and creative team to be announced soon.