WHEN A MONARCH FALLS INTO MADNESS, THE ONLY CURE IS MUSIC. Oscar® and three-time Tony® winner MARK RYLANCE “proves again that he is one of the great actors of our age” (Time Out London) in FARINELLI AND THE KING, coming to Broadway following sold-out runs at Shakespeare’s Globe and on London’s West End. Written by Claire van Kampen and directed by John Dove, this captivating new play “celebrates the restorative power of music and how it can transform us” (The Telegraph). FARINELLI AND THE KING is inspired by the fascinating true story of Philippe V (Rylance), a Spanish monarch on the brink of madness who finds unexpected solace in the voice of world-renowned castrato, Farinelli. Soon, Farinelli and the King forge a powerful connection, and the celebrated singer must make a difficult choice: return to throngs of adoring fans or perform forever for an audience of one. Rylance leads an acclaimed cast, including countertenor Iestyn Davies, who “sings with rapturous virtuosity and uncanny beauty” (Independent) throughout the play. Like Broadway’s Twelfth Night and Richard III, this contemporary work is presented in the signature style of Shakespeare’s Globe – traditional baroque instruments are performed live in a gallery above the stage; the audience enjoys intimate seating with several rows onstage; and the story is told by candlelight, creating an enchanting theatergoing experience and “a pleasure that verges on the sublime” (The Guardian).
