National Theatre Live Screenings

This season, The Courtyard has an eclectic range of National Theatre Live Screenings for audiences to enjoy.

Kicking off on Thursday November 8 is Alan Bennett’s brand new ‘rousing chorus line for the NHS’ (Observer) Allelujah! (15). The Beth is an old fashioned cradle-to-grave hospital, serving a town on the edge of the Pennines and is threatened with closure as part of an efficiency drive. A documentary crew, eager to capture its fight for survival, follows the daily struggle to find beds on the Dusty Springfield Geriatric Ward, and the triumphs of the old people’s choir.

Another Alan Bennett classic, The Madness of King George III (12A) follows on Tuesday 20 November. The production begins in 1786 when King George III is the most powerful man in the world. But his behaviour becomes increasingly erratic as he succumbs to fits of lunacy. With the King’s mind unravelling at a dramatic pace, ambitious politicians and the scheming Prince of Wales threaten to undermine the power of the Crown, and expose the fine line between a King and a man.

Following this, is Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra on 13 December. Starring Ralph Fiennes and Sophie Okonedo, the play documents a tragic fight between devotion and duty, obsession becomes a catalyst for war. Politics and passion are violently intertwined in Shakespeare’s gripping tale of power.

Next up is a chance to see Simon Russell Beale in another Shakespeare classic, The Tragedy of King Richard II on Tuesday 15 January. The Tragedy of King Richard II is a visceral new production about the limits of power, directed by Joe Hill-Gibbins (Little Revolution, Absolute Hell).

Closing the season is David Hare’s explosive new play I’m Not Running, premiering at the National Theatre and broadcast to The Courtyard cinema on Thursday  31 January. The play follows the story of Pauline Gibson, who has spent her life as a doctor and the inspiring leader of a local health campaign. When she crosses paths with her old boyfriend, a stalwart loyalist in Labour Party politics, she’s faced with an agonising decision.

To book tickets, or for more information on Live Screenings at The Courtyard contact the Box Office on 01432 340555 or visit courtyard.org.uk/search/NT+live