There is nothing like spending a gorgeous summer night with friends, wine, nosh and one of The
Bard’s most famous plays performed live outside. Thankfully the Delaware Shakespeare Festival (DSF) provides this opportunity in Rockwood Park! Regardless if you are a
Shakespeare aficionado or novice, you will have a delightful evening at DSF.
This year’s DSF production is Hamlet. Of course, most of us have read Hamlet and/or seen a production of the play or a film version. We know Hamlet, but director David Stradley breathes new life into this
iconic piece. His sophisticated production ignites the enchanting grounds of
Rockwood Park and makes the material fresh and exciting.
The multi-level stage by Scenic Designer Oona Curley with
the park as its backdrop is enthralling. The cutout quasi-square–shaped back
wall not only makes it convenient for the actors to enter and exit the stage,
but it also frames the scenes with the lush green field in the distance. It’s
as if each scene begins as a picture that comes to life.
And, bringing the play to life is a stellar cast led by
Griffin Stanton-Ameisen as Prince Hamlet. Mr. Stanton-Ameisen’s Hamlet has an
emo rock star look, which is fitting for a character that is quite expressive
with his thoughts and feelings. Mr. Stanton-Ameisen’s dynamic performance
conveys the depths of anger and pain his character feels once finding out his uncle (Claudius, the now King of Denmark) has married his mother (Gertrude)
after killing his father. Carl Granieri and Caroline Crocker give magnificent
performances as the devious Claudius and weary Gertrude.
Clare Mahoney as the lovelorn Ophelia— who is told by Hamlet
to go to a nunnery when she professes her love for him — and James Kassees as
Opheila’s father Polonius, are both compelling and remarkable in their roles.
As most know, Hamlet
doesn't end well for its leading characters, but that doesn't dampen the
lovely evening only DSF can provide in a charming atmosphere. Don’t delay; get
your tickets today before this production closes!
Hamlet plays at
Rockwood Park until July 27. Purchase tickets at the door or visit
www.delshakes.org. Don’t forget to bring
your own chairs, drinks and food! If you don't want to pack food, the Wandering Chef Catering Cart is in the park selling delicious fare!