References

• Hamlet takes the stage at the Athenaeum Threater Posted on 7 June 2014 by themoderncon in Art & Lifestyle, CBD, Dance Performance, Melbourne, Suburb, Uncategorized // 0 Comments Words by Kate Iselin Photography provided by Fuller PR If you’re a theatre-going Melburnian, no doubt you’re familiar with the Australian Shakespeare Company. As Australia’s longest-running outdoor theatre company, they’ve entertained under the stars for over twenty-five years; and now – just in time for the kind of weather that has you putting the picnic rug away for the next six months – they are moving indoors for a season, to present Hamlet at the iconic Athenaeum Theatre. “Hamlet delves into all forms of love and conflict, exploring their deepest depths and farthest limits. We can’t wait to take Melbourne audiences on the journey through this unforgettable story,” explains director Glenn Elston, one of the great pioneers of outdoor theatre. Although the move indoors is a big one for the company, it has been extremely well-received. “An indoor studio series is an exciting new step for us to evolve the company whilst maintaining the intimate connection we have created in garden settings,” Elston says. “We will be using simple staging and costume, focusing on the performances of our talented cast to engage the audience in Shakespeare’s verse and prose.” It truly is a talented cast, with actor Hugh Sexton adding to his sixteen years’ worth of experience with the Bard by taking on the title role of Hamlet. “Hamlet embraces all aspects of humanity and exposes each element bare and raw for its audience to respond to,” says Sexton. “So, I guess you could say taking on the title role is no mean feat!” Taking the stage with Sexton will also be Kevin Hopkins, Anthony Rive, Penny Larkins and Mia Langdren. Whether you’re a seasoned Shakespeare fan or you still confuse your Rosencrantz with your Guildenstern, Hamlet is a fantastic way to re-acquaint yourself with one of the most-performed pieces of theatre in the world – and to stay out of the rainy Melbourne weather and keep warm in the Athenaeum with Glenn Elston, Hugh Sexton, and the rest of the Hamlet team. The Australian Shakespeare Company will be presenting Hamlet at the Athenaeum Threate from the 10 – 28 June.