Fairfield University’s Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts presents The National Theatre of London’s acclaimed contemporary staging of “Timon of Athens” in a National Theatre Live in HD presentation at 2 p.m. (encore) and 7 p.m. (encore) on Thursday, November 29, 2012. (Rescheduled from November 1, due to storm-related circumstances).
Simon Russell Beale takes the title role in William Shakespeare’s strange fable of consumption, debt and ruin, written in collaboration with Thomas Middleton and set against a backdrop of modern-day London where money is power. With these broadcasts, Quick Center audiences can enjoy a front-row seat to a production that is currently enjoying a sell-out run in London. Tickets are $25, $20 for seniors and $15 for students and children.
Simon Russell Beale, who has been described by the Independent as “the greatest stage actor of his generation,” takes the title role in Nicholas Hytner’s (“Hamlet,” “One Man, Two Guvnors”) bold production, which makes “Timon of Athens” more relevant and compelling than ever before. 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.
The National Theatre of London’s “Timon of Athens” has earned 5 STAR reviews from the Daily Telegraph, Evening Standard, Independent, and 4 STARS from the Guardian, Daily Mail, Daily Express, Financial Times, Metro, Time Out, and The Times. The Daily Mail calls it “fast, venomously satirical”. The Evening Standard says it is “pure and powerful.” And the Independent calls it a “bold, incisive revival...an urgent play for today.” The Guardian echoes: “A perfect parable for our times in Nicholas Hytner’s exhilarating production featuring a compelling central performance by Simon Russell Beale.”
Simon Russell Beale’s 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.
Newly announced National Theatre Live in HD performance broadcasts include “People,” the new play by celebrated comic playwright Alan Bennett, at 3 p.m. (live) and 7 p.m. (encore) on Thursday, March 21, 2013; and “This House,” James Graham’s biting and energetic new play, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2013.
Tickets are available through the Quick Center Box Office: (203) 254-4010, or toll-free 1-877-ARTS-396. (1-877-278-7396). Tickets can also be purchased online at www.quickcenter.com.
The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts is located on the campus of Fairfield University at 1073 North Benson Road in Fairfield, Connecticut. Entrance to the Quick Center is through the Barlow Road gate at 200 Barlow Road. Free, secure parking is available. Access for people with disabilities is available throughout the Quick Center for audience members and performers. Hearing amplification devices are available upon request at the Box Office. Fairfield University is located off exit 22 of Interstate-95. For further information and directions, call (203) 254-4010 or 1-877-278-7396, or visit www.quickcenter.com
