Simon Russell Beale returns to the National Theatre in Timon Of Athens, Shakespeare’s of a wealthy man whose friends disappear as his money dries up.

Timon Of Athens is a wealthy friend to the rich and the powerful, a patron of the arts and an ostentatious host. He showers the cities movers and shakers with expensive gifts and unmatchable hospitality. But, happier to splash the cash than actually take responsibility for it, his money disappears.

Though he assures his trusty steward that all will be fine, he quickly finds that his former friends and ex colleagues are happier to leave him in the lurch than lend him a helping hand. After a final, vengeful banquet, Timon Of Athens disappears to a literal and emotional wasteland, nibbling on roots and damning the morally bankrupt city he left behind.

Russell Beale, who takes the title role in Timon Of Athens, is a regular at the South Bank venue, where his recent productions have included Collaborators, London Assurance and Major Barbara.