Eric Krebs Performs 75-Minute One-Man 'Lear' in April

King Lear, one of Shakespeare's most complex and often produced tragedies, will receive a new treatment off Broadway as a one person presentation April 3-8 at the 45th Street Theater. Conceived and performed by Eric Krebs, a theatrical producer and university professor, this 75 minute version of the play is entitled Considering Lear.

"Krebs, best known in the New York Theater as a commercial theatrical producer on and off Broadway for over 35 years, has also been a professor of Theater at Rutgers University and currently at Baruch College of the City University of New York for nearly 40 years," state press materials.

"I have developed a method of giving a play to students within the 75 minute confines of a college class period," Krebs commented. "For years I have wondered how this approach would work for general audiences. Now I will take my life in my hands and find out."

"Many people are afraid of King Lear and Shakespeare in general. The language and the context of the action have become somewhat difficult for the modern, untrained ear, especially for students. Many of those in my classes are immigrants or the children of recent immigrants, so Shakespeare presents a particular challenge. My presentation is a way of making the magnificent King Lear accessible to the Shakespearian novice."

On Broadway, Eric Krebs has produced the Tony nominated production of Bill Maher: Victory Begins At Home, It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues and Electra.  Off-Broadway, he has produced over 100 shows.

Considering Lear, produced by Vanity Productions and Eric Krebs, will play from April 3-8, Tuesday through Friday at 8:00, Saturday at 3:00 and 8:00 and Sunday at 3:00. All tickets are free. Reservations may be made at 212-967-7079 or send an e-mail to Jason@ektminc.com.  JThe 45th Street Theater is located at 354 West 45th Street, between Eighth and Ninth Avenues.