What is King Lear really thinking of? What does his mysterious Fool dream about? What are the secret reasons for his daughters’ revenge on their father? What really lies behind the most famous lines in Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy? Michael Pennington’s performance as Lear in New York in 2014 was considered to be the equal of those of Paul Scofield and John Gielgud. This book - part memoir, part analysis, part adventure story - lights up the familiar text and the unique production he led. Funny, candid and deeply illuminating, both honest and scholarly, King Lear In Brooklyn is the work of one of our finest actor-writers at the top of his form. “Michael Pennington is a Great actor, and a great writer about actors and acting. This book has all the wit, wisdom and passion that characterises his performances. Here is a page-turning artistic journey to an undiscovered country on the map, and in the mind. It brings with it all the touchingly complex humanity that the author finds in King Lear itself. It is written with honesty heart and humour by a master of his craft, and I thoroughly recommend it.” ― Kenneth Branagh “This great performer has a rare ability to describe the indescribable with such fine insights that his account of exploring both his Lear and his Life could be re-titled The Compleat Actor (though his modesty would balk at it), for that's what he is. I couldn't put it down.” ―Janet Suzman “Michael Pennington is a great actor, and a great writer about actors and acting. This book has all the wit, wisdom and passion that characterises his performances. Here is a page-turning artistic journey to an undiscovered country on the map, and in the mind. It brings with it all the touchingly complex humanity that the author finds in King Lear itself. It is written with honesty, heart and humour by a master of his craft, and I thoroughly recommend it.” ―Kenneth Branagh “King Lear has lowered his voice, the better to be heard more clearly. Mr. Pennington punctuates the expected blasts of rage with a quieter, introspective insight that is even more devastating.” ― New York Times “I've seen a dozen Lears over the years, but none match the clarity, simplicity, and humanity of Pennington's. From him, I learned what the play is about.” ― The Broad Street Review “Michael Pennington is playing Lear with crystal-clear definition, as if he were born to play the role. The result is close to perfection.” ― Curtain Up “Michael Pennington will break your heart. That's his job, and he does it magnificently. He plays Lear to perfection, in moments large and small; he is harrowing to watch.” ― Brooklyn Daily Eagle “Pennington seems to grow to twice his height at times. But what's really striking is his uncanny depth of connection with his fellow actors in quieter scenes.” ― New York Daily News Michael Pennington has been a lead actor with the RSC, RNT and the Peter Hall Company. He was Joint Artistic Director of the English Shakespeare Company and has been a constant fixture on television and radio dramas. He has received Olivier Award nominations for roles in 'Romeo & Juliet', 'Strider' and 'Richard II', and a Sony Radio Award Nomination for his role in 'Jude the Obscure'. His solo show 'Anton Chekhov' has played at the National Theatre, the Old Vic, numerous festivals abroad, on radio and has been subject of a television documentary.