HAMLET

Shakespeare fans should not miss this Harlos Productions performance of Hamlet. What at first appears to be an amateur production soon evolves into an astounding collective performance. The length and intensity of Hamlet –a near three hours—often makes it tricky for at least this audience member to stay awake and interested. This group, however, managed to suck us in from start to finish, with increasing intensity and humour. Especially charming was the cast’s ability to improvise with the unexpected, like mobile phones ringing, or cast members accidentally falling off. Johann Walraven is a particularly convincing Hamlet, managing to inspire empathy and make us laugh at the same time. The characters’ costumes could have been more imaginative, and the lack of props –with the exception of two chairs—sometimes undermined the powerful performances. Still, the cast’s charisma more than made up for it.

Until May 28, The Greek Theatre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville,  $29-38, 9958 8525, harlos.com.au

BY HENAR PERALES