Lear Here

One of Shakespeare’s most heart-wrenching tragedies, King Lear finds a king who wants to distribute his land among his three daughters, with portions depending upon which of them praises him most eloquently. Lear is one of those roles that old British actors get huge boners for the chance to play, and this time it’s Simon Russell Beale, a guy whose name you don’t know, but whose face you’d probably recognize. Sam Mendes (Skyfall) directs this classic, which is brought to you this evening at the Cedar Lee at 7 p.m. Be forewarned: It’s three-and-a-half-hours long, but it’s live theater (sort of), so enjoy. Tix are $20 (which is only like $3 more than an IMAX 3-D movie at Crocker, so don’t get all indignant). (Allard)