Z Space: Oakland Theater Project and New Performance Traditions present KING LEAR

By William Shakespeare

Directed by Michael Socrates Moran

Music composed by Paul Dresher

September 25 – October 11, 2026

Z Space’s Steindler Stage

In the twilight of his rule, a king sets out to divide the kingdom among his three daughters. But in mistaking flattery for love, Lear’s foolish choices usher in a new reign of domination, cruelty and collapse.

As a self-styled “bastard” sets out to upend the ruling order, Lear must confront his own part in the kingdom’s downfall.

Can he transform in time to reclaim what is sacred before the clown show becomes the new order?

Ritual and spectacle collide in Michael Socrates Moran’s bold, contemporary staging of Shakespeare’s epic tragedy, featuring a cast of 30, including the “irrepressible” (SF Chronicle) J Jha (Angels in America, Mahābhārata) as Lear; renowned performer, singer, and writer Rinde Eckert (Ghost Quartet) as The Fool; and music composed by Paul Dresher and performed live by the Dresher | Davel Invented Instrument Duo.

Schedule

Previews

Friday, September 25 at 7 p.m.

Saturday, September 26 at 7 p.m.

Opening

Sunday, September 27 at 7 p.m.

Performances

Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun through October 11

Thu, Fri, Sat at 7 p.m.

Sun, Oct 4 & 11 at 2 p.m.

Run Time: 3 hours (including 2 intermissions)