The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark Reviews
The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
Washington Post- Somewhat Recommended
"...There's no accusing Avant Bard Theatre of losing sight of its moniker with director Kathleen Akerley's experimental adaptation of "Hamlet" at Arlington's Gunston Arts Center, where the casting subverts gender norms, anachronisms slip into the script and grief-induced soundscapes often drown out the Elizabethan language."
MD Theatre Guide- Recommended
"...Avant Bard Theatre has a reputation for offering a malleable Shakespeare that speaks to an array of issues, stagings, and audiences. With their production of Kathleen Akerley’s conception of “Hamlet,” Avant Bard yet again shows how adaptable Shakespeare can be to any era, any staging, and any cast. Akerley’s version of the play holds up well to her Director’s Note promise of prompting audiences to “rethink some relationships.” This version of Hamlet offers re-stagings that further embroil lesser characters in the action, that sees actors slipping in and out of numerous roles regardless of gender, and that defines key plot moments through well-timed homages to masques. It is an intriguing theatrical offering that tests the limits of what Shakespeare can do."