1990's: The Winter's Tale

Learn more about the iconic production featuring Anthony Sher

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.    

Anthony Sher on playing Leontes
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Gregory Doran, Artistic Director of The RSC, in conversation with Anthony Sher. Audio taken from The Royal Shakespeare Company’s Talking Shakespeare series, 2020. 

Suit and cloak worn by Anthony Sher as Leontes, Designed by Robert Jones, © The RSC, 1999, From the collection of: Royal Shakespeare Company
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Crown wore by Anthony Sher as Leontes, Designed by Robert Jones, © The RSC, 1999, From the collection of: Royal Shakespeare Company
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Suit worn by Anthony Sher as Leontes, Designed by Robert Jones, © The RSC, 1999, From the collection of: Royal Shakespeare Company
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Follow here to continue exploring a history of The RSC and The Winter's Tale, 2000-2010s.

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