Bard on the Beach presents Hamlet
Bard on the Beach (BOTB) is in its fifth season. Theatre-goers might be familiar with the concept, initially conceived by Shakespeare by the Beach founder Dr David McSwan in 1987. Veterans were eager to embrace the legacy, so Artistic Director Patricia Rowling and other long-serving artists took up the helm to found BOTB.
“We like to stay [as] traditional as possible, to the time period and what they wore,” explained Rowling. Many of the costumes are faithful to the Elizabethan era, in keeping with BOTB historical approach.
The upcoming production of Hamlet, in Marrickville’s Greek Theatre, promises to be full of frills and thrills. Rowling explained that it is a traditional approach to the staging, involving period costumes and sword-fighting, choreographed by Patricia’s husband Kyle Rowling, also the director of the show.
Although not necessarily “by the beach”, BOTB welcomes the opportunity to bring the Bard to the Inner West.
“It’s really close to home, without needing to head into the city,” said Rowling, adding that the indoor venue allows for school groups to see the show in its entirety.
For audiences who have never seen Hamlet in its true-to-the-time production, this is a wonderful opportunity for all to see the Bard’s poetry and drama straight from times past. (OA)
Hamlet: Mar 11–17. The Greek Theatre, Addison Road Community Centre, Marrickville. $15-$25. Tickets & info: bardonthebeach.net or 0414 906 734
BY OLGA AZAR
