Hamlet

This American-accented HAMLET is a churning, turbulent production with many fine moments resulting from its fast pace. This energy may inevitably lead to a few missed opportunities for quiet and meditation (or for the listener to have a respite), but the overall effect is satisfying. The greatest range is shown by Emily Swallow as Ophelia. Stacy Keach is also excellent--imposing, chilling, and nuanced as the ghost. Josh Stamberg plays Hamlet as tormented and confrontational. One of his finest touches enhances the outset of the recorder scene with restraint and calm. Listeners who follow along with a text of the play will best keep up with the rapid pace. G.H. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine


Experience the heartrending dark humor of HAMLET in this CBC broadcast. Though definitely of the Old-Time Radio variety in sound and format, the penetrating depth of the performances and the passion of the players provide timeless tragedy. The production manages to envelop the listener in its shroud of drama and brilliant writing, defining the chilling and eerie passages for which the play is known. Time seems to stand still as Peter Haworth as Hamlet emotes his suicidal sarcasm. Listen to this audio theater gem during the gloomy dusk, and you may be heard to say, "Though this be madness, yet there is method in't." D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine