National Theatre’s Contemporary Take on Shakespeare’s Hamlet
In a striking reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s iconic play, Robert Hastie’s production of Hamlet at the National Theatre offers a fast-paced exploration of the tragedy’s themes, with a runtime of just under three hours, reports BritPanorama.
Opening last week, this latest adaptation follows Indhu Rubasingham’s provocative rendition of The Bacchae and aligns with the leadership team’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive theatre experience. The production showcases a sleek momentum characterized by minimal scene changes, primarily set within Ben Stones’s elegantly designed grand dining room, which enriches the atmosphere.
Hiran Abeysekera portrays the troubled prince with a frenetic energy, meticulously capturing Hamlet’s deep emotional struggles. However, his rapid delivery of key soliloquies, particularly ‘To be or not to be,’ lacks the necessary gravitas, diminishing the impact of his turmoil. This approach casts a shadow over the entire performance, extending to the Fortinbras narrative.
The dynamic portrayal of the Polonius family, particularly Polonius (Geoffrey Streatfeild) alongside his children Laertes (Tom Glenister) and Ophelia (Francesca Mills), brings a spirited interplay that engages the audience. Mills’s vibrant Ophelia stands out as a refreshing presence in the oppressive court, making her eventual downfall even more poignant. In contrast, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are portrayed as somewhat overshadowed characters, drawing on a gothic aesthetic reminiscent of Harry Potter.
While Abeysekera and Glenister share moments of reluctant reconciliation, the production ultimately struggles to deliver the necessary weight to fully encapsulate the tragic ending. Nevertheless, their interactions hint at the complex manipulation at play.
To 22 November, National Theatre, London (020 3989 5455, nationaltheatre.org.uk)
