Alleyway Theater brings some of the world’s best theater to Buffalo with the National Theater Live series this summer

Alleyway Theatre, a leading presenter of contemporary theatre, has announced its first series of National Theater Live (NTLive) screenings. This program will bring acclaimed productions from London’s West End to Buffalo audiences, providing a unique opportunity to experience world-class theater from the comfort of the Queen City.

NTLive uses innovative filming techniques to capture live stage performances in a cinema-like experience with close-ups and camera angles that would not be possible in a traditional theater setting, providing a more intimate perspective on the performances and the nuanced expressions of the actors.

The initial lineup for the NTLive screening series includes three productions, but we’re told more will be announced at a later date.

• The Motive and The Cue (June 2 and 3): This captivating new play explores the legendary rivalry between actors Richard Burton and John Gielgud during their rehearsals for Hamlet.
• Dear England (July 7 and 8): Examining the national obsession with football in England, this piece looks at the challenges faced by the England team in achieving international success.
• King Lear (August 4 and 5): Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy stars the famous Ian McKellen in the title role. King Lear explores themes of betrayal, family and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

June 2 at 2:00 p.m. | June 3 at 7:00 p.m.

The electrifying all-new play directed by Sam Mendes which brings to the big screen the infamous rehearsals of Hamlet by Richard Burton and John Gielgud, starring Johnny Flynn and Mark Gatiss. For fans of Shakespeare and the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Why would the world’s most famous movie star choose to do a play that everyone already knows? And what draws us to return to the same pieces, year after year? The year is 1964. Richard Burton, newly married to Elizabeth Taylor, is to play the title role in a new experimental production of Hamlet on Broadway, under the demanding direction of John Gielgud. But as the rehearsals progress, two eras of theater collide and the collaboration between actor and director soon threatens to deteriorate.

This fierce and funny new play by Jack Thorne offers an insight into the politics of a rehearsal room and the relationship between art and celebrity.

July 7 at 2:00 p.m. | July 8 at 7:00 p.m.

A gripping examination of the nation and the game by James Graham (Sherwood), directed by Rupert Goold (Judy). For sports fans and theater fans.

Gareth Southgate (Joseph Fiennes, The Handmaid’s Tale) has given the England team hope, but with the nation’s expectations on his shoulders, what happens when football doesn’t come home? The country that gave world football has since suffered a painful series of losses. Why can’t the English men win in their own match? With the worst penalty record in the world, Gareth Southgate knows he must open his mind and face the years of pain to lead the team and the country back to the promised land.

August 4 at 2:00 p.m. | August 5 at 7:00 p.m.

Considered by many to be the greatest tragedy ever written, Shakespeare’s play is broadcast from London’s West End, starring Ian McKellen in an “extraordinarily moving portrayal” (Independent) of King Lear.

Jonathan Munby directs this “nuanced and powerful” contemporary retelling (The Times) of Shakespeare’s tender, violent, moving and shocking play.

King Lear sees two aging fathers – one a king, the other his courtier – rejecting the children who truly love them. Their blindness unleashes a tornado of ruthless ambition and betrayal, as family and state are plunged into a violent power struggle with bitter consequences.

This summer, beat the heat by meeting other theater enthusiasts and attending together the captivating performances and groundbreaking works unfolding on screen, all in the heart of Buffalo’s Theater District.

And for those who love all things British, I hope there will be a sweet popcorn option!

Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday May 29 for the first three titles.
General admission: $30 | Students: $20

Order online at alleyway.com or in person one hour before each performance, if tickets are still available!
Location: 1 Curtain Up Alley, Buffalo (on Main Street in the Theater District)