To Be or Not to Be…
In the audience of Hamlet at The Crown Revue Theatre in Nashville, Michigan is easily answered! BE! This production of Shakespeare is an emotional rollercoaster through the characters’ journey of love, betrayal, friendship, and vengeance. It is worth travelling the distance for those who are familiar with Shakespeare and those who are not. This small production company is well known to members of several communities and counties to be high quality and reasonably priced.
The sets and costumes are described as “more aesthetic and simple than time -period sensitive with fewer distractions to showcase the talent on stage.” I must agree with this assessment as I was totally transformed into a witness of the actions versus a mere audience member.
Directed by Jack Kison, who as the Player King is full of enthusiasm and delight, has cast these characters perfectly. Hamlet is played by Jacob Cook who shows his descent into “madness” with such raw emotions that the audience can clearly understand his motives and can’t help but sympathize with him. His dear friend Horatio, played by Sophie Braker is truly transformed into a kind and loyal friend. Their affection for one another is clearly evident in their interactions. Amber Miler as Laertes and Janine VanStee as Player Queen both deserve an extra shout out. Frank Boston as Polonius provides the perfect fool and assistant to Claudius. He has the whole audience delighted in his humor as he waxes on and on. His nod to Caddy Shack as the Grave Digger is not to be missed.
Although the production is long, 3 hours, it is worth checking out. It will be showing Friday July 15, and Saturday July 16, at 7:00 pm and Sunday July 17 at 2:00pm. Location is 310 Main Street, Nashville, MI. Tickets are $10.00 and can be purchased at https://theRevueNashville.SeatYourself.biz/