Coriolanus starring Tom Hiddleston kicks off the GREAT campaign

MANILA, Philippines - Back by popular demand, the British Embassy Manila kicks off a seven-month period of GREAT activities that showcase the best of British business and culture to Filipino audiences.

The GREAT campaign launches with the much-anticipated performance of National Theatre Live’s production of William Shakespeare’s Coriolanus, with a cast led by Tom Hiddleston, best known for his charismatic portrayal of the Marvel villain Loki in The Avengers and Thor. Mark Gatiss of Sherlock and Doctor Who also stars in the production.

Ayala Cinemas will be broadcasting the live stage performance from London through special screenings on Sept. 5 and 6 in Greenbelt 3.

British Amb. Asif Ahmad said, “The tremendous success of our last GREAT campaign has prompted us to launch another fantastic line-up of events that features the full spectrum of the best in British industry, business, entertainment, fashion and the arts.”

“We are very fortunate to have Ayala Cinemas as our partner for the screening of National Theatre Live’s Coriolanus, which will give Filipinos a glimpse of the world-class theater performances from London’s West End. I hope that seeing Coriolanus will entice you to visit the UK, including Shakespeare’s Stratford upon Avon. Come and experience our vibrant culture like the 49,000 Pinoys who toured Great Britain last year,” he added.

Coriolanus is Shakespeare’s searing tragedy of political manipulation and revenge. When an old adversary threatens Rome, the city calls once more on her hero and defender: Coriolanus. But he has enemies at home, too. Famine threatens the city. The citizens’ hunger swells to an appetite for change and on returning from the field, Coriolanus must confront the march of realpolitik and the voice of an angry people.

Performances are open to the public. Tickets can be purchased on site or online at Sureseats.com.

GREAT events after National Theatre Live include the GREAT Retail Shopping Contest, Philippine-British Friendship Week headlined by the GREAT Friendship Ball, GREAT Investment Week, trade missions and the second GREAT British Festival.

The Philippine Star is the media partner of the GREAT campaign.

For details about the National Theatre Live and the GREAT campaign, visit the British Embassy Manila Facebook page and Twitter account (@ukinphilippines).