DVC’s production of “Hamlet” prepares to shine new light on an old tragedy
Gordon Belanger (right), playing the part of Hamlet, rehearses with fellow actors Nate Smith, playing the part of Claudius, and Cassandra Grove, playing the part of Queen Gertrude, during DVC Drama’s dress rehearsal on Jan. 28, in the Performing arts center. The play premieres on Jan. 31.
January 29, 2014
Shakespeare’s classic and renowned play “Hamlet,” is being brought to life at the Diablo Valley College campus from Jan. 31 to Feb. 16.
“The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince Hamlet of Denmark” is William Shakespeare’s longest play and tragedy which was originally written starting in 1599 and finished in 1602.
Director Nicole Hess-Diestler, had a very unique interpretation of this play, and brought it to life in a different way in comparison to the original. More than three hours of the play was cut out to portray the exclusive interpretation that Hess-Diestler had of the literature.
According to 23-year-old Andrew Jamshidi who plays Rosencrantz in the DVC production, described the ambiguity of the characters in this version of the play is marvelous.
“The original is very black and white,” Jamshidi said. “The bad guy being Claudius and the good guy being Hamlet. This version is not very black and white. The audience is able to sympathize more with Claudius. And Hamlet is not so clearly the protagonist of the play. His mad behavior is focused on more in this version, especially towards his mother and other characters in the play. The audience cannot draw conclusions so easily in this version of Hamlet.”
The play’s unique point of view shows the audience a less tragic, more humorous take of this classic play. 18-year-old Tyler Iiams, who plays Laertes in the play unfolded that the setting in this version of the play is different than the original Hamlet play. Due to so much of the play being shaved away, this interpretation of it is much more climactic and fun.
The spin that Hess-Diestler has placed on this timeless piece of literature has excited the actors, actresses and the public. Showings run from Jan. 31 to Feb. 16, in the Performing Arts Center — with Friday and Saturday showings starting at 8 p.m. and Sundays starting at 2:30 p.m. Tickets will be sold online at www.dvcdrama.net and in the ticket office on campus located by the Performance Arts Center.
