The Royal Exchange Theatre has unveiled the full cast for Matthew Dunster’s reimagined King Lear, starring David Threlfall in the title role. The production marks a highlight of the venue’s 50th anniversary season, running from 2 October to 15 November.

David Threlfall will take on the iconic Shakespearean role of King Lear in Matthew Dunster’s new revival at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre. The show is set to run from early October through mid-November as part of the theatre’s fiftieth anniversary programme.

Joining Threlfall is a diverse ensemble including Nadine Shah, a Mercury Prize-nominated musician, cast as Goneril. Lisa Diveney will play Regan, Isobel Akuwudike portrays Cordelia, and Jonathan Slinger assumes the role of Gloucester. Other key characters are played by Nicholas Karimi (Albany and Brawn), Tom Varey (Edgar), Paddy Stafford (Edmund), and Jason Done as Kent.

The wider cast features Ed Coleman as Cornwall and French Officer, Gabin Kongolo as France and Curan, with Anwar Russell as Burgundy and Oswald, and Ryan Pope playing Elias. Grace Jabbari, Jessica Mannion, Harry Clarke, and Rupert Hill complete the ensemble in supporting roles.

Director Matthew Dunster’s creative team includes Anna Fleischle on set design and Cat Full overseeing costumes. Associate director Emma Baggott, lighting designer Lucy Carter, and composer Nadine Shah contribute to the production’s aesthetic and sound, with Holly Khan handling sound design. Movement direction is provided by Charlotte Broom, while Maisie Carter is responsible for fight and intimacy direction.

The production features a highly experienced backstage team, including casting director Amy Ball and various assistant and deputy stage managers supporting the intricate staging process. The announcement confirms strong creative collaboration behind this high-profile Shakespeare project.

This reimagining of King Lear forms part of a broader trend of fresh interpretations of classic texts on UK stages today. The Royal Exchange’s 50th anniversary season highlights its ongoing commitment to bold new ventures in the theatrical canon.