The anticipation of witnessing Ian McKellen on stage in Stockbridge was palpable in Ashton Hall. To be in such close proximity to the great man was indeed thrilling. However this was not an evening for the traditionalist, as the narrative was not driven by the bard’s words, but by the dance of Scottish Ballet with Sir Ian peppering the action with some of the play’s most  famous speeches. Johan Christensen danced  the part of Hamlet and was a suitably brooding prince with his interactions with his mother Gertrude, and his love Ophelia being especially affecting. The two Hamlets moved together side by side through the action, with Sir Ian’s older Hamlet adding an haunting melancholy  to the narrative as we know Hamlet will never reach old age. At the denouement the fight scene between Hamlet and Laertes was an especially thrilling climax to the piece.

Knowing the play well, I found the ballet with narration format an enjoyable 75 minutes. However the acoustics in the hall were not great, with some people unable to hear Ian McKellen’s words clearly. The seating around the hall meant that many people had a restricted view of the stage. For those that could see and hear though it was a most enjoyable evening and ended with a standing ovation for the ensemble.

****

Reviewed By Rona

Ashton Hall

Saint Stephens Stockbridge

16.00 and 19.00 (1hr 15)

Until 28 Aug (not Mondays)