Anthony Sher as Leontes (1999) by Rob Collier © RSCRoyal Shakespeare Company
1999, Director: Gregory Doran
Sher’s powerful interpretation was based on his medical research into psychotic jealousy, which manifested itself as “big, grim smiles [that] give way to despotic rage” and “a smiling monster with glinting eyes” Benedict Nightingale, The Times, 10 April 1999.
The production opened with a striking dumbshow as a backlit Leontes (Antony Sher), dressed in ermine and full regalia, processed down stage accompanied by a soundtrack of escalating whispers.
Gregory Doran, Artistic Director of The RSC, in conversation with Anthony Sher. Audio taken from The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Talking Shakespeare series, 2020.
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