Shakespeare's Hamlet reimagined: a contemporary twist at The Masque
A fresh perspective on Shakespeare's Hamlet comes to life at The Masque
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Shakespeare's enduring tragedy, Hamlet, is making a comeback this May at The Masque, reimagined in a modern setting that promises to appeal to both high school students and seasoned Bard enthusiasts alike.
Directed by the talented Yuri Behari-Leak, this innovative adaptation will run from 9 to 17 May, showcasing a gender-swapped retelling that highlights pressing societal issues, including gender-based violence and identity in the age of social media.
This fresh take on Hamlet introduces us to a young female director at a modern film production studio, grappling not only with the impending premiere of her latest film but also with the painful quest for vengeance following her mother's untimely death. Set against the backdrop of a world consumed by fame and celebrity, the production adeptly maintains Shakespeare's original dialogue while allowing a new generation to connect with the material.
Gavin Werner and Leila Sassman who are playing the leading roles in The Masque Theatre's production of Hamlet
Image: Supplied
“As a testament to Shakespeare's remarkable insight into the human condition, we are thrilled to present this production in a modern setting," Behari-Leak shares. “Our approach is designed to engage high school learners with their textual studies while also captivating veteran fans of the Bard.”
The essence that has made Hamlet a timeless classic, carefully preserving the essence that has made Hamlet a classic through the centuries. Viewers can expect to witness the internal struggle of the titular character as she navigates the complexities of morality and justice, ultimately questioning how to stay true to oneself amidst the pressures of modernity.
The talented cast comprises Hanna Todd, Gavin Werner, Leila Sasman, and Ethan Andrew Wilton, promising performances that will draw audiences deep into the heart of the tragedy. Yuri Behari-Leak, a Cape Town-based storyteller with a rich educational background in Psychology, Law, and Film from the University of Cape Town, brings a wealth of experience to this production. In addition to his work on stage, he has produced several short films and contributed to various academic pursuits at the university.