Hamlet Reviews
Washington Post- Somewhat Recommended
"...And even though the rather gray production underperforms in pivotal areas — and allows some unfortunate overacting in others — there’s a noteworthiness in the valedictory exertions of an old pro, applying himself anew to cracking open an esteemed text and wishing to make it sing."
DC Theater Arts- Highly Recommended
"...The Shakespeare Theatre Company’s production of Hamlet, directed by Michael Kahn, is a rich, multi-layered interpretation of a uniquely great play."
MD Theatre Guide- Highly Recommended
"...Any Shakespeare play can seem intimidating, especially one as long and complex as "Hamlet." But Michael Kahn's brilliant direction and Michael Urie's almost frenzied, riveting performance make this one unique, and ultimately worth watching."
Theatre Bloom- Recommended
"...Madness in great ones must not unwatched go. By that logic, theatergoers should be rushing out to Shakespeare Theater Company for Michael Kahn's production of Hamlet starring Michael Urie as the mad Danish prince. Disturbingly dystopian, albeit conceptually undercooked, this production marks the end of an era as Michael Kahn, the show's director and the company's long-standing artistic director, makes it his final production before retiring. Not without impressive performances given by the featured player and others, the production generates a new and confusing look at Hamlet, attempting to present a strong parallel to a myriad of topics relevant to modern society."
DCTheatreScene- Highly Recommended
"...In short, Hamlet is, notwithstanding the four hundred and sixteen years which has passed since its first production, fresh, new, startling, and funny. If that's what you like, I recommend that you see it."
BroadwayWorld- Highly Recommended
"...Many a director has reset Hamlet, and other Shakespeare plays, in the present. It is neither a new technique, nor an original move, and too often is an unsuccessful and cheap attempt to make the play feel relatable or to give it a "fresh look." However, most directors are not Michael Kahn who has an encyclopedic knowledge pertaining to anything related to the Bard. With this production of Hamlet he is subtlety reminding us that while times and methods may change, the ultimate actions and emotions are still the same. Hamlet, at the end of the day is still about a family dynasty, an autocratic ruler, and the methods used to retain power by any means."