Timon of Athens

"Nicholas Hytner has seized the cynical, disillusioned day. He hurls Timon into the 21st century and finds it lands there almost perfectly." - Daily Telegraph

Simon Russell Beale takes the title role in William Shakespeare’s strange fable of consumption, debt and ruin.

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. Directed by National Theatre's artistic director Nicholas Hytner (The History Boys, Phèdre, Hamlet)

Approximate running time: 3h w/one intermission