Farinelli and the King NYC Reviews and Tickets

82%

(540 Ratings)

Positive

89%

Mixed

Negative

Members say

Great acting, Great singing, Absorbing, Great staging, Entertaining

About the Show

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.

'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.

Show-Score Member Reviews (540)

Clever, Delightful, Funny, Great singing, Hilarious

See it if an Quirky musicals . Unique histofrical Incident recreated on stge. Want a good laugh but not fluff

Don't see it if Not interested in historical fiction . Read more

Ambitious, Intelligent, Indulgent, Delightful, Great staging

See it if you're interested in the idea of music or the arts as a tool to treat mental health issues.

Don't see it if you're a little tired of self-reflexivity in theater. I just feel like I've seen Rylance in better plays. The role is a little "too for him"

Absorbing, Great acting, Intelligent, Quirky, Riveting

See it if You like period pieces that are quirky, or if you want to see a masterful performance from one of theaters best actors.

Don't see it if The subject matter seems a bit too weird.

Enchanting, Intelligent, Quirky

See it if you love Marc Rylance...and who doesn't. It's a fun play and even more special if you are lucking enough to score a stage seat.

Don't see it if you are expecting the mind-blowing performance you are used to from him. This part doesn't allow him to reach the heights we love him for.

Clever, Funny, Entertaining

See it if you are a Rylance fan for he gives an outstanding performance. Fabulous sets and costumes add to the allure of this show.

Don't see it if you do not like to engage in historically set pieces.......

Entertaining, Great acting, Intelligent, Masterful

See it if you love the sound of countertenors - or you love Mark Rylance. It's an odd play in a way but it a very enjoyable theatrical experience.

Don't see it if you're expecting a lot of plot.

Great singing, Great staging, Great acting, Entertaining, Thought-provoking

See it if you enjoy some history with your Broadway. Cast is very talented. Staging is lovely.

Don't see it if you are only interested in modern offerings.

Clever, Delightful, Great singing, Great acting

See it if You love to see the past recreated in the style of the Old Globe or if you appreciate the genius of Mark Rylance in his natural habitat.

Don't see it if You need a neatly wrapped up conclusion.

Critic Reviews (56)

Trailer

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