The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

King Lear has been in the National Theatre for almost three months now. After viewing the production, it’s clear that this is no ordinary show, but an outstanding beauty and grandeur. This is not only because of the legendary performance by the distinguished artist Yehia El Fakharany, but also because of many other well-thought-out details. 

The National Theatre: Spreading Culture with Easy Access

First and foremost, the fact that the play takes place at the National Theatre without increasing the price of their tickets is very commendable. The ticket prices start from EGP 60 and don’t exceed 110, which means that for roughly the cost of a shawarma or less, you can enjoy an entertaining show that exposes you to fine art and culture at the same time.

The Adaptation of a Universal Script to Fit the Local Community

Being slightly unfaithful to the original play adds significant social and political implications that are more in line with our current era. During the conference held before the play, Yehia El Fakharany said that every time he reads King Lear, he discovers something different, and this was very clear in his approach to performing the play in its current iteration. 

In this version of the play, El Fakharany knows precisely how to drive the message home by turning to the audience and addressing them directly, but in a way that keeps him from going outside the fundamental plot or deviating from the script.

A Special Portrayal of the King’s Jester

The jester character in the play also directly addresses the audience and King Lear himself. Sometimes the overly direct way in which some points are made is a bit bothersome, but it’s not overbearing, unlike other works that feel too didactic. 

Performing Through Thin and Thick 

One of the most impressive things about the play is the brilliant performance by Dr Yehia El Fakharany. El Fakharany’s advanced age undoubtedly affects his health, prompting the audience to wonder if he will be able to deliver such a good performance. 

However, as soon as El Fakharany steps on stage, it feels like watching a completely different person. Of course, the rest of the actors occasionally help him move or sit, but it was well-incorporated in the script in a way that doesn’t make it noticeable to the audience. 

Performances That Made King Lear a Top-Notch Show

All members of the cast deliver their roles with precision and distinction. Tarek Desouky, Tarek El Kashef, and Amal Abdullah each contributed outstanding performances. Notably, Lekaa Ali made a significant impact in her role, ensuring her presence was memorable, despite her limited time on stage.

It All Lies in the Direction 

King Lear as a production couldn’t have succeeded without the most exquisite choreography and battle scenes, the brilliant use of lighting, and the same attention paid to the movements and speech of the actors in the background as to the foreground actors. It demonstrates the exceptional talent of director Shady Sorour. He has paid attention to every detail and every nuance to ultimately deliver an unforgettable theatrical work.

This show is living proof that hard work always pays off. It’s evident in the overwhelming response to the play that all its performances are almost fully booked, with audiences desperately trying to secure tickets. The 2025 King Lear cast and crew really did an exquisite job!