My Perfect Mind has its title derived from the very words of Shakespeare’s King Lear “I fear I am not in my perfect mind”. Drawn from King Lear and his own autobiography, it explores Edward Petherbridge’s life before, and after, the stroke he suffered in 2007 that meant he had to withdraw from playing the iconic Lear which he was rehearsing in New Zealand.

Petherbridge, perhaps best known for his portrayal of Lord Whimsey in the BBC adaptations of Dorothy L Sayer’s novels, has elegance and a remarkable stage presence. You can hear the frustrations in his never having to play the part he adores as he rips through the text of which he still knows every line. Paul Hunter plays the physical comedy well to starkly oppose the life story we are told. He plays a number of characters, including one Laurence Olivier, in a sharp and driving performance.

The set really was best described by Petherbridge himself on his entrance, likening it to a ‘contemporary art exhibition’. The action takes place on a slanted stage, which plays to comedic effect at various moments; it is a perfect choice to reflect the disorientation that a stroke can bring.

Edward Petherbridge, Paul Hunter and director Kathryn Hunter really do make a good job of putting this story on stage. Petherbridge is made out by a German professor to be mad, believing himself to be King Lear, as his life weaves into parts of the play. The surreal action, with its underlying truth, makes for a compelling performance.

Although the piece loses pace and drive towards the end it still shows glimpses of theatre. It reveals Petherbridge’s craft in such a charming, brave way that we cannot help but be moved by it. It is the ghost of the Lear that Petherbridge was never able to play.

My Perfect Mind is a gracefully honest, whimsical portrayal of a difficult time in Edward Petherbridge’s life. It is a piece of devised theatre – clever and courageous theatre which sheds light on his recovery from a potentially life destroying condition. ★★★★☆  Sam Chipman    5/11/14