‘Hamlet’ by Opera Australia is a captivating take on a classic
Image: Andrew Moran as Marcellus, Allan Clayton as Hamlet and Samuel Dundas as Horatio in 'Hamlet'. Photo Credit: Keith Saunders
By ASPEN ABNER
Opera Australia’s performance of Hamlet at the Joan Sutherland Theatre is a captivating experience, blending the timeless allure of Shakespeare’s tragedy with the emotional depth of operatic expression. After watching this performance, one can truly appreciate why high school English teachers insist that Shakespeare was meant to be performed, not read.
Directed by acclaimed Australian Shakespeare director Neil Armfield, this production brought together a stellar cast and creative team to deliver a poignant and visually striking rendition of this classic tale.
From the moment the curtains rose, the audience was transported into the dark and brooding world of Elsinore. The set design was minimalist and effective, using stark, cold tones and sharp lines to evoke the oppressive atmosphere of the Danish court.
Australian composer Brett Dean’s composition, inspired by Hamlet’s splintering sanity, featured a massive orchestra and chorus positioned throughout the theatre to create a dramatic effect. On stage, Hamlet’s descent into madness was amplified by a wall of voices pressing in from all sides, mirroring his troubled mind.
Allan Clayton stars as Hamlet, delivering a portrayal that was both nuanced and powerful. His interpretation of the titular role captured the complexity of Hamlet’s character, from his grief and anger to his existential dread.
Lorina Gore as Ophelia, Catherine Carby as Gertrude, Rod Gilfry as Claudius, Nicholas Jones as Laertes, Kanen Breen as Polonius, and Samuel Dundas as Horatio formed an impressive ensemble, each bringing their characters to life with emotional depth and vocal prowess.
The entire cast of Hamlet clearly rehearsed long and hard for this production. Each character’s actions were synchronized with the orchestra’s phenomenal music, creating a seamless integration of performance and score.
The orchestra’s performance was impeccable, adding depth to the unfolding drama on stage and the lighting perfectly adjusted to the sudden changes in atmosphere, enhancing the emotional impact of each scene. The cast performed naturally as the scenery shifted around them, adding to the overall experience.
Photo Credit: Keith Saunders.
Opera Australia’s Hamlet at the Joan Sutherland Theatre was a tour de force, a production that honored the tragic beauty of Shakespeare’s work while exploring new artistic dimensions. The combination of stellar performances, innovative direction, and a haunting musical score made for an unforgettable evening, solidifying the production as a standout in this year’s opera season.
This opera adaptation of Hamlet is a stellar opportunity to see the play in a new context, all while remembering why it’s one of the greatest and most influential works of all time.
Opera Australia presents: Hamlet
20 July – 9 August, Sydney Opera House
https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/opera-australia/2024-season/hamlet
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