Mark Rylance Enchants Critics and Audiences On December 17, 2017, Farinelli and the King had its official opening night at the Belasco Theatre, where the play had been running in previews since December 5, 2017.A new play written by Claire van Kampen, Farinelli and the King is the story of King Philippe V of Spain (Mark Rylance), whose unsteady mental health shook an already unstable Europe … This lavishly produced European costume melodrama chronicles the life of Farinelli the 18th century's most renowned castrati singer whose remarkable voice covered 3 1/2 octaves. ‘Farinelli and the King’ Review: The Madness of Philip V Mark Rylance stars as the Spanish monarch whose demons were assuaged by a legendary castrato. Farinelli and the King, Duke of York's Theatre, review: 'leaves us hanging on every word' Latest jobs. The evocative set is by Jonathan Fensom. A thrilling hint of madness matched with insouciant wit has been a signature characteristic of Rylance's stage work, which makes the ailing monarch in Farinelli and the King a tailor-made fit. With that in mind, simply bundle up your cares and woes and head to the Belasco Theatre where the new play “Farinelli and the King” will show you just how right Congreve got it. King Philip V of Spain is certifiable, of that there’s no doubt. Beautiful intimate theatre with gorgeous, ornate appointments. '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. John Dove’s production cleverly solves the problem of … I highly recommend the current show, "Farinelli and the King " starring Mark Rylance. Farinelli and the King ... Sam Crane, as Farinelli, gives a performance of delicacy and grace. Find tickets for Farinelli and the King at Duke of York's Theatre, London using seat reviews, view photos & seating plan. Left to right, Melody Grove, Mark Rylance and Sam Crane in Farinelli and the King. Read 2 audience show reviews Farinelli and the King, Duke of York's Theatre, review: 'leaves us hanging on every word' ... Natasha is The Stage's reviews editor and joint lead critic. Farinelli makes the distinction between his public fame and private self, Carlo Broschi – and, in John Dove’s production, the role is skilfully divided. Farinelli and the King is a beautiful Mark Rylance showcase and not much else: EW review this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. The cast of "Farinelli and the King": (L–R) Sam Crane, Melody Grove, Lucas Hall, Huss Garbiya, Edward Peel, and Mark Rylance. If the play is structurally shaky and thematically a tad thin, John Dove's exquisite staging … Claire van Kampen’s new play Farinelli and the King — just transferred from London to the Belasco — is a duet for two virtuosos. There’s not much to Claire van Kampen’s simplistic script for “Farinelli and the King,” the play now running on Broadway after premiering at Shakespeare’s Globe in London. “Music hath charms to soothe a savage breast, to soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.” So wrote 17th-century playwright William Congreve. B… Duke of York's Theatre: Farinelli and the King - See 383 traveler reviews, 52 candid photos, and great deals for London, UK, at Tripadvisor. Reviewed December 9, 2017 via mobile . Beautiful Theatre, "Farinelli and the King" Review of Belasco Theatre. Farinelli and the King ... Sam Crane, as Farinelli, gives a performance of delicacy and grace. If music be the food of love then ‘Farinelli and the King’ is a delicatessen of exquisite delights, in which the prime cut is the sensual richness of countertenor Iestyn Davies’s voice. Farinelli (Sam Crane), left, and King Philippe V (Mark Rylance) forge an enduring and healing relationship.