David Tennant injects life and laughter into the character of Hamlet, rarely seen in other versions of this intense play, as the seriousness of the subject matter often detracts from the funny and sardonic
lines of the obstinate Prince. Tennant relishes every aspect of the complexities of the progressively brooding Hamlet as he spirals into uncertain madness and sympathetic yet comical depression,
making his breakdown all the more poignant. Alongside the talented Patrick Stewart, who plays a stern and ominously opportunistic Claudius, the pair demonstrate the explosive danger of both the private and public war of the play, reflected by the cracked mirrored backdrop. After seeing the ghost of his father, the former King of Denmark, Hamlet must avenge his father’s death by killing his uncle Claudius, his apparent murderer and now King. As Hamlet tries to prove Claudius’ guilt by feigning insanity he
gives Claudius reason and occasion to plot his downfall.
Hamlet plays in repertoire at Stratford-Upon-Avon until 15 November before moving to London from 3 December to 10 January.
Julie Visgandis
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