AN EPIC new version of Shakespeare’s King Lear will be played at Birmingham Repertory Theatre to commemorate 400 years since the playwright’s death

Royal Exchange Theatre and Talawa Theatre Company will present the tale of King Lear, who divides the kingdom between his daughters after deciding to give up his crown.

His actions lead to family ties disintegrating, order disappearing and the land sliding into chaos.

Artistic Director of Talawa Theatre Company, Michael Buffong, directs a star cast including Don Warrington in the title role for shows from May 19 until May 28.

He said of the role: "It’s huge and it’s like looking at Mount Everest and thinking, I’m going to try and climb that.

"You’re trying to convey the essence of a human being and Shakespeare has caught it, you realise he’s caught it as you read it and that’s why King Lear is huge.

"Most things are aspects of a person… this is all of a person."

Director Michael Buffong said: "As a director it’s always a privilege to work with great actors like Don.

"To have him joined by such a wonderful company puts us well on the way towards realising the vision I have for this King Lear.

"It’s going to be epic, exciting and passionate."

Joining him among the cast is Philip Whitchurch as the Earl of Gloucester, Game of Thrones actor Miltos Yerolemou as the Fool, and Harry Potter actor Alfred Enoch as Edgar.

King Lear is also presented as part of the celebrations for Talawa’s 30th anniversary year.

For tickets, which cost between £13.50 and £35, contact the Box Office on 0121 236 4455 or visit birmingham-rep.co.uk.