So you thought your family is dysfunctional, well you have seen nothing until you see the State Theatre Company production of King Lear. This production has all that is to be expected of a great Shakespeare play. Murder, Betrayal, Greed, Adultery, right & wrong and of course a mad king – what more could you ask for!?

The production whilst keeping with the traditional script, has added a modern feel by way of costumes and the minimalist set, either that or the company got hit by the GFC hard! I found this to be somewhat disappointing, going in with the expectations of seeing a period piece, with all the traditional trappings one would expect of a Shakespearian production of old, but sadly this did not eventuate. As for the acting, it was nothing but sublime. Led by John Gaden (King Lear himself) the cast gave the production emotion and feeling, capturing the audience at every twist and turn leaving us wanting more.

If you love Shakespeare and want a great evening out, then you can’t go past this production of King Lear.  - Michael