Oscar and three-time Tony winner Mark Rylance returns to Broadway in this new drama about Spain's King Phillippe V's bond with a legendary castrato. More…
'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. 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. 'Farinelli and the King' comes to Broadway following sold-out runs at Shakespeare’s Globe and on London’s West End.
See it if you're absolutely passionate about countertenor singing ... and want to see it even if it's embedded in a vehicle with no discernible plot.
Don't see it if you expect something like THE MADNESS OF GEORGE III (with its wit and drive). This play will disappoint mightily. What were they thinking?
See it if you own a flashy period costume worthy of an 18th century Spanish court and you can get tickets that will put you onstage with the cast.
Don't see it if you detest playwrights who display more research than heart or great actors who are reduced to hamming it up for easy laughs.
See it if You're a Rylance completist, but don't expect much. Or if you want to see how much an actor truly loves his wife. (Answer below)
Don't see it if Oh almost any reason will do...
Also I couldn't fathom why Rylance, who can surely attach himself to any pr... Read more Read less
See it if You like arias, candle light, and Mark Rylance pulling deep from his bag of tricks with little to show for it.
Don't see it if You want a story, original jokes, or competent writing. Truly, it's baffling that this is on Broadway.
See it if no reason to see it. I hated it from the opening moments. Some of the actors tried their best.
Don't see it if I've like Mark Rylance before, but this was just awful. Embarrassing in parts.
See it if You love beautiful sets, and Mark Rylance.
Don't see it if You like good plots, characters you want to root for, and excitement.
See it if you love to see Mark Rylance doing the same mugging schtick he did in Boeing Boeing and Twelfth night. Alas, he is so good in films
Don't see it if you expect a plot or tension rather than just a situation: madman is calmed by singing
See it if You want to see Mark Rylance or the excellent musicians.
Don't see it if You want to see an incredibly weak play. It's message may be true and beautiful but the play goes off the rails, becoming messy and vapid.
See it if Confusing. No plot. Love connection out of nowhere. No introducing the connection. Awful. A definite miss, waste of money.
Don't see it if DO yourself a favor, do NOT see it
See it if you're a superfan of Rylance. Got me in the door. Or if you just can't get enough of the 17th cent. aria canon, sung castrato.
Don't see it if you're expecting Rylance to once again transport you. I know it's just me (see other reviews) but I never cared about the king's plight.