National Theatre Live: Timon of Athens

From the archive

This film was last shown on 4 November 2012

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.

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

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