Review: Hamlet (Theatre in the Forest)
There are no surprises if you go down to the woods today… As the wonderful Red Rose Chain are back again this summer with Theatre in the Forest!
The theatre company return to National Trust’s Sutton Hoo adding their special Red Rose magic to another of Shakespeare’s works, and this year it’s the turn of Hamlet.
One of the Bard’s tragedies, this may not be the obvious choice for some madcap fun in the forest, however this performance is brilliant. Director, Jo Carrick, has once again taken Shakespeare’s original text and turned it into something rather special.
Set in Denmark, the story follows Prince Hamlet, who is devastated by the sudden death of his father, King Hamlet. When the ghost of the late king appears and reveals that he was murdered by his own brother, Claudius—now the new king and Hamlet’s uncle—Hamlet vows to avenge him.
From the moment you arrive you are greeted by the cast in character and this sets the tone for what’s to come.
And then, with all the swagger of a Disney prince, Vincent Moisy enters the stage as Hamlet. Moisey is such a talent. There is absolutely nothing this brilliant actor can’t do: Choreographed fight scenes, musical numbers, fabulous expression, and he even helped build the set!
Georgia Redgrave is a new comer to Theatre in the Forest and her portrayal of Ophelia was a joy to behold, I’m sure she will be back again in the future – well, I hope so…
In fact, there is not a weak link amongst the talented cast. These have to be some of the most hardworking actors in the area, playing many parts and umpteen costume changes in this high-energy production.
And, it’s a very special moment when the audience meets the Ghost of King Hamlet for the first time. This amazing puppet, created by Charlie Tymms, is incredible. With a nod to Sutton Hoo and King Raedwald, this amazing creation really is something rather special.
Red Rose Chain have become experts in outdoor theatre, and their production this year definitely doesn’t disappoint. It’s accessible, family theatre at its best… You can even take your dog!
Red Rose’s Hamlet is very much a triumph, there is no tragedy to be found here…
Theatre in the Forest – Hamlet is on until 23rd August. To book tickets visit wwwredrosechain.com/tickets
Review: WendyCook, Ipswich24 Magazine
Picture: Bill Jackson