“Tis the times’ plague, when madmen lead the blind.”
From “The Tragedy of King Lear”
William Shakespeare wrote “The Tragedy of King Lear” more than 400 years ago.
Still, the harrowing play speaks to us today.
“Lear” is about politics and power and greed. Characters lie and betray. It could be ripped out of today’s headlines.
“I think Shakespeare understood the human heart so well, understood essential human nature,” says Cynthia Meier, who is directing The Rogue Theatre’s production of “Lear.”
“That is why he was such a great dramatist.”
King Lear is aging and is looking to step down from his throne. His plan is to divide his kingdom of Britain evenly between his three daughters. But first, he wants each to tell how they love him. His two older daughters flatter him endlessly. His youngest, Cordelia, isn’t quite as effusive, but infinitely more honest: “I love your majesty according to my bond; no more nor less.”
Lear is not happy. He disowns Cordelia. And thus begins a slow descent into madness, the dismantling of the kingdom, betrayal, torture and great, deep sadness.
There’s much in this play that speaks to Meier: the intricate storytelling, the language, the theme of pride, the forgiveness in the midst of tragedy. And the generational issues.
Meir sees the latter with the movement launched by students after the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida.
“Especially right now, when teens are leading us,” she says.
“It’s interesting to think about when the old guard fades away, when do children take over from their parents?”
There’s plenty to chew on with “Lear,” she says.
“The philosophical ideas in the play, what it is to grow old, to have conflicts with children, relationships.”
Meier hopes audiences will be provoked. And that they walk away with a deeper appreciation of Shakespeare.
“I think Shakespeare should always be seen, not read,” she says.
“It’s so alive. It’s always our goal to excite people about the greatest dramatist that we have.”
