About This Show

Staged on an all-black set using her own handmade costumes and props, Kanako Hiyama’s Hamlet places the King in the audience’s midst, recasting spectators as members of the Court. An always-present Ghost introduces the story and observes the action from among the audience. Hiyama’s swift 90-minute adaptation favors story over poetry: scenes are played out of order; speeches are interwoven in surprising ways. Hiyama stages each scene from the perspective of a different character; thus, Hamlet’s story is seen from many angles. The almost Oedipal relationship between Hamlet and Gertrude is emphasized throughout, and other characters (including Ophelia) are excised. Hiyama’s production moves quickly between time and place, transforming the deep LaMama stage into a series of elevations separated by curtains and populated by puppets (courtesy of Tom Lee).

Box Office Hours: Mon. – Sun. Noon to 10pm

Group Sales Number (10+): 212-254-6468

Appropriate for all ages.

Show Details

Running Time: 1hr 30min (0 intermissions)
Dates: Opening Night: November 3, 2005 Final Performance: November 20, 2005

Theatermania Review

| | November 13, 2005
Michael Cumpsty gives a beautifully spoken if occasionally overacted performance as Shakespeare’s unhappy prince.

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