Review: This Outdoor Production of ‘Hamlet’ Is Not Your Typical Shakespeare – The Gentleman Report
Other characters also endure the truncation of the production. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern leave a brief impression and vanish, while the Players’ rendition of “The Mousetrap” is reduced to a mere pantomime. Horatio, an integral character in Shakespeare’s original text, is scarcely present. Despite these limitations, exceptional actors like John Douglas Thompson portraying Claudius, Daniel Pearce as Polonius, and Lorraine Toussaint embodying Gertrude bring profoundness and intricacy to their respective roles.
While this production may modify certain aspects of the play, it presents fresh viewpoints and unforgettable moments. It introduces poetic verses that may have been disregarded in previous productions and integrates contemporary elements, such as equipping Laertes with an N95 mask. However, those unfamiliar with “Hamlet” or anticipating a conventional rendition may feel disoriented by the production’s unconventional interpretation.
If you are receptive to encountering a distinct approach to “Hamlet,” this open-air production in Central Park is worth attending. Just be prepared for a voyage that takes unfamiliar twists and turns.
Hamlet
Through Aug. 6 at the Delacorte Theater, Manhattan; publictheater.org. Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes.
Other characters also suffer from the production’s trimming. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern make a fleeting impression and disappear, while the Players’ performance of “The Mousetrap” is reduced to a mere mime show. Horatio, a key character in Shakespeare’s original text, is barely present. Despite these limitations, standout actors like John Douglas Thompson as Claudius, Daniel Pearce as Polonius, and Lorraine Toussaint as Gertrude bring depth and complexity to their roles.
While this production may alter certain aspects of the play, it offers fresh perspectives and memorable moments. It introduces poetic lines that may have been overlooked in previous productions and incorporates modern details, such as giving Laertes an N95 mask. However, those unfamiliar with “Hamlet” or expecting a traditional rendition may feel adrift in the production’s unconventional interpretation.
If you’re open to experiencing a different take on “Hamlet,” this outdoor production in Central Park is worth attending. Just be prepared for a journey that takes unfamiliar twists and turns.
Hamlet
Through Aug. 6 at the Delacorte Theater, Manhattan; publictheater.org. Running time: 2 hours 45 minutes.
