Hamlet and Privates on Parade

Another couple of shows to update on.

Friday 24th October: Hamlet @ Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon
This was a repeat visit to this particular show, an event which proved to be worth every penny as Patrick Stewart's performance as Claudius had vastly improved from when I had seen it in July.

I still have reservations about some of the decisions made by Doran, as to cuts and placement of the interval, but overall the show works a treat. With exceptional performances by David Tennant and Penny Downie. Also the most credible Ophelia I have seen for a long time.

Saturday 25th October: Privates on Parade @ Birmingham Rep Theatre
Knowing that this had first performed by the RSC in the 1977, I wanted to go to see what the fuss had been about, and have to say I can see why this is such a popular show. The current production is a co-operative effort between West Yorkshire Playhouse and the Rep.

Played on an open stage, there are times when I had wished for more dialogue and more of the background, but overall this is a sharp and astute production of a play that is richly layered.

Well worth a visit