Spazju Kreattiv is screening a live broadcast of the National Theatre’s production of King Lear from the Duke of York Theatre, London.

Jonathan Munby directs this contemporary retelling of Shakespeare’s tender, violent, moving and shocking play, while Ian McKellen plays the title character.

Considered by many to be the greatest tragedy ever written, King Lear sees two ageing fathers – one a king, one his courtier – reject the children who truly love them. Their blindness unleashes a tornado of pitiless ambition and treachery, as family and state are plunged into a violent power struggle with bitter ends.

A number of critics have praised the production. “Ian McKellen reigns supreme in this triumphant production,” wrote the Daily Telegraph, while the Independent called McKellen’s role “an extraordinarily moving portrayal”.

The cast also includes Sinéad Cusack as Kent, Danny Webb as Gloucester and Kirsty Bushell as Regan.

King Lear, certified 12A is showing at St James Cavalier, Valletta, today at 8pm. The screening contains strobe lighting. For tickets, visit www.kreattivita.org or call the booking office on 2122 3200.