Part of National Theatre Live – the best of British theatre broadcast live to cinemas worldwide.

British Council Bulgaria, Cinema City and Varna Summer International Theatre Festival, in partnership with Sofia Municipality and Programata Cultural Guide, present

Timon of Athens
by William Shakespeare

Simon Russell Beale takes the title role in Shakespeare’s strange fable of consumption, debt and ruin, written in collaboration with Thomas Middleton.

Wealthy friend to the rich and powerful, patron of the arts, ostentatious host, Timon of Athens is surrounded by free-loaders and sycophants. He vastly outspends his resources but, finding his coffers empty, reassures his loyal steward that all will be well.

When he calls upon his associates, instead of offering help, they hang him out to dry. After a final, vengeful banquet, Timon withdraws to a literal and emotional wasteland, living off roots and pouring curses on a morally bankrupt Athens.

* * *

Simon Russell Beale has been described by the Independent as ‘the greatest stage actor of his generation.’ His recent work for the National Theatre includes London Assurance, Much Ado About Nothing and Collaborators, John Hodge’s Olivier Award-nominated new play in which he portrayed Stalin.

Cast includes

• Martin Chamberlain
• Jason Cheater
• Stavros Demetraki
• Paul Dodds
• Deborah Findlay
• Ciaran McMenamin
• Simon Russell Beale
• Nick Sampson

Director

• Nicholas Hytner

Designer

• Tim Hatley

Lighting Designer

• Bruno Poet