Mark Twain wrote, "There are five kinds of actresses: bad actresses, fair actresses, good actresses, great actresses. And then there is Sarah Bernhardt." In 1899, the international stage celebrity set out to tackle her most ambitious role yet: Hamlet. Theresa Rebeck's new play rollicks with high comedy and human drama, set against the lavish Shakespearean production that could make or break Bernhardt's career. Janet McTeer, "one of the finest classical actresses of her generation" (The Telegraph), brings the legendary leading lady to life. The remaining cast and creative team will be announced soon.
Writer Rebeck (Seminar) and director Moritz von Steulpnagel (Present Laughter) keeps the action moving with brisk, chamber-piece choreography: The ingenious set (by Tony winner Beaowulf Borrit) makes the most of its two-plus sides, and supporting players (including Brittany Bradford and Dylan Baker as a bobbling fellow thespians and Nick Westrate as Sarah's grown son) swan around in Toni-Leslie James's dazzling costumes - crisp britches and white linens, richly piled velvets and shimmering silk.
One wonders wonder whether Hillary Clinton's unsuccessful run for the presidency played a role in the development of 'Bernhardt/Hamlet.' There is an obvious connection between the hostility faced by both Bernhardt and Clinton as they ventured into traditionally male territory. 'Bernhardt/Hamlet' is an inspired, timely and interesting idea for a play - if only it had been better executed.
2018 | Broadway |
Roundabout Theatre Company Original Broadway Production Broadway |
Year | Ceremony | Category | Nominee |
---|---|---|---|
2019 | Drama Desk Awards | Outstanding Costume Design for a Play | Toni-Leslie James |
2019 | Drama League Awards | Distinguished Performance Award | Janet McTeer |
2019 | Outer Critics Circle Awards | Outstanding Scenic Design | Beowulf Boritt |
2019 | Tony Awards | Best Costume Design of a Play | Toni-Leslie James |
2019 | Tony Awards | Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play | Janet McTeer |
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