Hamlet

A Shakespeare play can never be considered an easy choice; so, when considering a Shakespeare production who would choose the most famous of plays, “Hamlet” to perform?

Class Act Drama did just that, at the Drill Hall Chepstow and left everyone in awe of their ability to tell a tale with such authenticity. To perform Hamlet In a close community setting, where the audience is intimate with the players, just as the Bard would have done.

Under the close direction of Louise Best, this amazing cast opened the story of Hamlet in a way that made the audience want to hear more. Not an easy atmosphere to develop, as many a professional company has found.

With the excellent lighting by Kate Townsend, the small stage took on the subtle changes to bring the required atmosphere for this epic tale.

The joy and identification of a Shakespeare play is the language. The whole Cast must bring life to the play through their understanding and emotional delivery of the words. I must congratulate the company on their outstanding skills in telling this story, with true consideration to the language, with a clarity usually expected on the professional stage.

Callum Woodward, as Hamlet left me speechless. An exceptional performance from his opening lines that did not falter but gained in intensity through every scene. The expression, the emotional energy and the delivery of each line was outstanding. A performance to remember. Thank you.

A lovely performance from Megan Pugh as Ophelia, with a mischievous modern twist on the character that gave her more substance. An excellent scene as Ophelia loses her mind in despair and I have to say, a superb death scene. Very well done.

Louise Pugh, as Queen Gertrude, gave a clear insight into the woman torn between her son and her chosen king. The character may be a weak woman, but Louise was not. Good delivery and her facial expressions were key to the character.

Well done to Michael Feakes as King Claudius. There was controlled dialogue throughout some very significant speeches. He made a fine figure as a King.
Ryan Gluyas as Horatio gave a superb performance, especially in scenes showing the relationship between himself and Hamlet. A very emotional performance that really held the interest of the audience. Very well done.

I must congratulate this wonderful cast, as each one of you made a difference to the overall production. Schools and colleges would really benefit from seeing Shakespeare brought to life in such a special and successful production. My greatest respects to you all.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.