The Bard returns (From Bridport and Lyme Regis News)

The Bard returns

5:04pm Tuesday 5th June 2012 in Stage By Ruth Meech

FOLLOWING the storming success last summer of As You Like It, Shakespeare’s Globe returns to Dorset this week to perform Hamlet in the gorgeous setting of Upton Park in Poole.

Using a small troupe of actors, the company will be presenting a stripped down version of Shakespeare’s classic play in this open air setting, reviving the old Globe principle of outdoor playing. Learning of his father’s death, Hamlet, son of the king, comes home to find his uncle married to his mother and installed on the Danish throne.

At night, the ghost of the old king demands that Hamlet avenge his ‘foul and most unnatural murder’.

Encompassing political intrigue and sexual obsession, philosophical reflection and violent action, tragic depth and wild humour, Hamlet is the fullest expression of Shakespeare’s genius.

Directed by Globe regular Bill Buckhurt, the play will star Anglo-American actor Michael Benz in the title role.

Michael, who graduated from RADA, said: “There are a few really good Shakespeare parts that are ‘young men’s roles’ – Hamlet, Romeo – so it’s a great part to play.

“But there is the history of the role, and the enormity of it, so I’m trying to think of the play as a new one.

“That has been helpful for me otherwise if you don’t stop thinking about the history of the role, you start comparing yourself to Richard Burton.”

Hamlet is in the walled garden of Upton Park on June 17 and 18 at 7pm with a 2pm matinee on the Monday. Call Lighthouse in Poole for full details and tickets on 0844 406 8666.