Movie spotlight
The Metropolitan Opera: Hamlet
When Australian composer Brett Dean’s Hamlet had its world premiere at the Glyndebourne Festival in 2017, The Guardian declared, “New opera doesn’t often get to sound this good … Shakespeare offers a gauntlet to composers that shouldn’t always be picked up, but Dean’s Hamlet rises to the challenge.” On June 4, this riveting contemporary masterpiece appears live in cinemas, with Neil Armfield, who directed the work’s premiere, bringing his acclaimed staging to the Met stage. Many of the original cast members have followed, including tenor Allan Clayton in the title role. Nicholas Carter makes his Met debut conducting a remarkable ensemble, which also features soprano Brenda Rae as Ophelia, mezzo-soprano Sarah Connolly as Gertrude, baritone Rod Gilfry as Claudius, and legendary bass John Tomlinson as the ghost of Hamlet’s father. This live cinema transmission is part of the Met’s award-winning Live in HD series, bringing opera to movie theaters across the globe
Insights
Plot Summary
This lavish production of Shakespeare's tragedy "Hamlet" is set to an opera by Ambroise Thomas. The opera follows the classic tale of Prince Hamlet, who is visited by his father's ghost and tasked with avenging his murder by his uncle Claudius. Hamlet feigns madness to uncover the truth, leading to a spiral of betrayal, love, and ultimately, death.
Critical Reception
The Metropolitan Opera's production of "Hamlet" was generally well-received, praised for its stunning visual design, strong vocal performances, and the compelling staging of a beloved Shakespearean tragedy. While some critics noted the opera's length and occasional dramatic pacing issues, the overall sentiment highlighted the brilliance of the production and its cast.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its spectacular set design and visual opulence.
Noted for strong vocal performances from the principal cast, particularly the lead.
Acknowledged for successfully translating a complex Shakespearean narrative into the operatic form.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific production is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The role of Hamlet in this production was a significant one for many of the singers, often marking a major undertaking in their operatic careers due to its demanding vocal and dramatic requirements.
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