The actor and dancer will combine the tragedy’s original words with a variety of movement and vocalizations to create a full range of characterizations in a one-person, self-written show called K.Lear. Kaplan has chosen Act III of the play because of its timeless topics: power, politics and family.
Kaplan believes that although Shakespeare understood the dynamics of all three, today’s audiences are probably even more in touch with the nuances of the subjects and can better understand the play than its original audiences. Shakespeare’s works can be complex, and Kaplan enjoys finding innovative ways to bring the work to the stage. He knows that the words and cadences are unfamiliar, sometimes difficult to embrace, and often, not particularly enjoyable.
"Most people consider Shakespeare somewhere between broccoli and taxes," he said.
For that reason, he strives to make his performances different and innovative, which helps explain the straightjacket he wears to perform K.Lear.
In the third act of the play, the king is banished and alone, wandering through a raging storm. He meets several people on his journey, some friendly and some not. Kaplan interprets the storm as the turmoil within Lear’s broken heart and weakening mind. Instead of individuals actually crossing his path, Kaplan’s king hears voices in his head.
The limitations of the straightjacket have forced him to make changes in his natural performance style.
"I was intrigued by the idea of moving in ways I wouldn’t have normally," Kaplan said. "I have to work without moving my arms, which is a significant part of my performance both as a dancer and an actor."
His performance style, called "text and movement," is essentially speaking while dancing.
Kaplan received his bachelor’s degree in history from Grinnell College in Iowa and his master’s of fine arts in dance from Texas Women’s University.
He teaches dance, yoga and dance history at Tarrant County College, and he previously taught at the University of North Texas and the University of Dallas. He enjoys writing and performing solo works and currently is creating a piece that will encompass the dragon story from the epic poem Beowulf.
The performance of K.Lear will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 23, at Rhythm and Moves Studios in Southlake. Tickets are $15 and advanced purchase is recommended. The studio is at 2008 E. Texas 114. Call 817-251-6683 for tickets.