‘Fascinating’ colossus of the stage Sir Peter dies, aged 86
TRIBUTES poured in last night to stage “colossus” Sir Peter Hall, founder of the Royal Shakespeare Company, who has died aged 86.
The theatre legend, who had been suffering from dementia, died on Monday in a London hospital surrounded by his family.
Yesterday, West End icon Vanessa Redgrave, 80, led tributes to the former National Theatre director, credited for transforming Britain’s stage and Shakespearean acting.
Redgrave, who worked with Sir Peter in Stratford and on Broadway, said: “He was a fascinating director. I count myself very lucky to have worked with him.”
Sir Peter founded the RSC in 1960, aged just 30. He was appointed the National’s director in 1973 and under his leadership the theatre moved from the Old Vic to the South Bank in London.
The National’s current director Rufus Norris said: “We all stand on the shoulders of giants. Peter’s shoulders supported the entirety of British theatre. His vision created a lasting legacy for all.”
The RSC’s artistic director Gregory Doran called Sir Peter a “colossus and visionary”.
Actor Sir Patrick Stewart said he had “transformed” the UK stage.
Four-times married, Sir Peter was deemed the foremost authority on Shakespearean directing.
In 1987 he worked with Dame Judi Dench and Sir Anthony Hopkins in Antony And Cleopatra and with Dustin Hoffman in his 1989 version of The Merchant Of Venice.
He is also remembered for his productions as artistic director of Glyndebourne Festival Opera from 1984 to 1990, including Carmen starring then wife Maria Ewing.
Throughout his career he was an outspoken critic of the level of funding from the Arts Council.
Sir Peter is survived by his widow, Nicki Frei, children Christopher, Jennifer, Edward, Lucy, Rebecca, Emma, and nine grandchildren.