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Hamlet has been performed in many theatres, by many people, led by many directors and yet despite the mass number of Hamlets there have been, every performance is unique and new. This strange sentiment is captured beautifully in the Motive and the Cue where the different interpretations of playing and directing Hamlet are presented in an extremely moving light.
The play follows the tumultuous rehearsals and relationships behind Richard Burton’s Hamlet. Burton’s frustration and anger with the role leads to many an outburst and anger over being unable to play this role well despite his talent. This is especially shown through his difficult relationship with director and legendary actor John Gielgud. Yet it is not all emotionally dark and difficult, the witty jokes and presence of the character of Elizabeth Taylor in this play bring a comedic and light hearted release among the tense scenes.
The actors were sublime, to the extent that it was entirely believable that Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton themselves were back on the stage. These performances were only added to my the seamless changing of the set which helped to provide an intriguing inside view on the rehearsal room.
Above all else the play highlights that each actor creates a different Hamlet, formed from their own experiences which create a different light to view him from. That this continuously changing classic character encapsulates the beauty and magic of theatre. That John Gielgud lay the foundations of something truly special and ensured that a whole new generation knew his name.