‘Shakespeare in the Park’ is a long held practice that is still very much alive. Outdoor theatre in general is still a common enough occurrence, having been one of the more traditional ways to perform for live audiences dating as far back to Greek theatre. To the average person though, often times even the average theatre goer, sitting outside for something as deep as Shakespeare isn’t that inviting. Unless of course, one of the leads is incredibly well known. James Earl Jones far surpasses the criteria for notoriety, and even he has taken part in performing Shakespeare outside during his tenure.
Jones is no stranger to the stage and he was already a seasoned pro when he was cast as the lead in King Lear 1974.
Jones is no stranger to the stage and he was already a seasoned pro when he was cast as the lead in King Lear 1974. The 1974 production was put on for the NYC Shakespeare Festival, and he and the troupe performed for a live crowd in Central Park. The play begins with Lear deciding he no longer wishes to continue his reign. In relinquishing his power, his initial intent is to divide his kingdom between his three daughters. When his two oldest attempt to flatter Lear with their opinions of him, he then seeks similar praise from his youngest Cordelia. Cordelia however is unable to convey an answer suitable to Lear, thus angering him and setting himself on a course towards madness and despair.
The first thing to be addressed is the obvious. This play will not appeal to most, and even some theatre fans may not be as inclined as usual. The play is long and tonally, it is dark. There’s a depressing atmosphere about this production that’s likely to make things difficult for anyone who may not be initially aware. Keep in mind King Lear is supposed to be this way, so this is not said with the goal of driving anyone away. Leaving aside the more morbid factors, the play is exceptionally well acted across the board. Every cast member was clearly very deserving of their place in the roster, and that goes double for James Earl Jones. There’s a reason he was picked, and he lives up to that expectation in his portrayal of Lear. Jones demonstrates the ability to take a character through stages, slowly but surely getting King Lear to that place of which there’s no returning. Nothing feels rushed or strained, but rather he comes off as calculated and diligent in his take on the character.
Don’t wish to think? Steer clear away from this one. Shakespeare is never a walk in the park, but King Lear is an especially layered story that requires constant focus from the audience in order to follow it. Fortunately for the viewers, Jones and company know exactly what they’re doing. They understand the language, correctly communicate the message, and physically they push themselves to the limits of what’s necessary in their blocking. This show closed decades ago but the Broadway Theatre Archive have released the taped production and there is currently a remastered version on YouTube.
