Hamlet Requiem
The S&F group takes on the bard with this original retelling of Hamlet premiering in three major cities in Western North Carolina.
Early promo players for Shakespeare and Friends’ upcoming production of Hamlet Requiem.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hillary Fleming takes the center stage as the dark Danish Prince, Hamlet. Photo by Anthony Abraira.
Tryon, North Carolina - Shakespeare & Friends, a theater group based in Tryon, plans to breathe new life into the Western North Carolina theater scene with their captivating adaptation of William Shakespeare's Hamlet. Titled simply Hamlet Requiem, this fresh take on the timeless play aims to engage both traditional Shakespeare enthusiasts and the younger, digital generation with its tour de force plot, shortened duration, and minimalist staging.
Director Anthony Abraira describes the production as: "a witnessing rather than a performance, aiming to create a unique and intimate connection between the audience and the world of Hamlet. No intermission will intensify the dramatic tension, ensuring spectators remain fully-engaged from beginning to end. A beautiful row of dominos is set, ready to fall at any moment."
While the original lines were written by Shakespeare, they have been cleverly rearranged and, at times, reassigned to different characters, seamlessly exemplifying the Bard's poetic genius with a familiar meter for modern dialogue that catches the ear.
In addition to its innovative storytelling and captivating performances, the production of Hamlet Requiem by Shakespeare & Friends promises to create an immersive and cinematically scored world.
“The room doesn't go silent for the entire play,” said producer Michelle Newman. “We’ve created an atmosphere that captures multiple energies and narratives with a carefully curated sound bed.”
In a departure from traditional gender role assignments, the titular role of Hamlet will be skillfully portrayed by Hillary Fleming. Fleming's captivating performance promises to offer a fresh perspective on Hamlet's inner turmoil, challenging conventional expectations and delivering a powerful portrayal.
"With the cast so close, audiences are stirred up,” said Fleming. “There is nowhere to run. But in a place like that you don't have to be a loud actor, you don't have to ham it up. It's hyper-realistic at times.”
Hamlet Requiem will premier September 14-24, 2023 in Asheville, Spartanburg, and Tryon.
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