Key Takeaways:
- Eddie Izzard performs a solo version of Shakespeare’s "Hamlet" at the Montalbán Theatre in Hollywood
- The show is a feat of memory, theatrical bravado, and cardio fitness, but may lack a fresh point of view
- Izzard’s performance is a spectacle that is both exhilarating and exhausting
- The show’s adaptation strives to include as much of the original play as possible, but may feel rushed at times
- Izzard’s comedic bits and portrayals of certain characters, such as Claudius and Ophelia, are particularly effective
Introduction to the Show
Eddie Izzard, a renowned British comedian and actor, has taken on the daunting task of performing a solo version of Shakespeare’s "Hamlet" at the Montalbán Theatre in Hollywood. This production, directed by Selina Cadell, is a remarkable feat of memory, theatrical bravado, and cardio fitness, as Izzard single-handedly brings to life the numerous characters of the tragic masterpiece. The show’s bare stage, accompanied by eerie lighting, suspenseful sound effects, and heavy-handed underscoring, provides a unique and intimate setting for Izzard’s performance.
The Performance: A Mix of Brilliance and Exhaustion
As a spectacle, Izzard’s "Hamlet" is both exhilarating and exhausting. The thrill of watching a fearless and indefatigable performer populate the stage with the play’s myriad characters never lets up, but fatigue can set in as the marathon drama unfolds in broad strokes. Izzard’s adaptation, written by her brother Mark, strives to cram in as much of the original play as possible, resulting in a breakneck delivery of Shakespeare’s lines at times. While the show’s energy is undeniable, it may benefit from a more interpretive vision, with a structurally remodeled "Hamlet" and a minimalist approach.
Izzard’s Portrayal of Characters
Izzard’s performance is marked by her impressive ability to bring the characters to life, often using comedic bits to great effect. Her portrayals of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Hamlet’s old friends sent to spy on him, are particularly amusing, as she treats them like sock puppets. The banter between Hamlet and the gravedigger also allows for witty wordplay, reminiscent of Izzard’s stand-up comedy roots. Additionally, her depiction of Claudius as a sinister, puffed-up phony, and Polonius as a preeminent courtier anxious to maintain his status, adds depth to the production. However, some characters, such as Horatio, barely register, while others, like the ghost, feel like relics of a bygone era.
Izzard’s Approach to the Soliloquies
Izzard’s delivery of the soliloquies, particularly the iconic "To be, or not to be" monologue, is noteworthy. While she is verbally adept, the soliloquies may feel like rhetorical set pieces that Hamlet has been rehearsing, rather than deeply emotional and introspective moments. The hand gestures and movements accompanying the speeches may also detract from the emotional impact of the words. Nevertheless, Izzard’s ability to convey the pathos of Ophelia, maddened by grief, is a highlight of the show, as she pounds her chest in a simple yet forceful manner.
The Challenge of Sustaining Intensity
Performing solo, Izzard must generate and sustain her own intensity throughout the show, which can be a daunting task. Even with a bulky knee brace, she gives her all in the final act’s duel between Hamlet and Laertes. The audience may also feel drained by this point, but Izzard’s athletic effort is undeniable. While the show may not offer a fresh perspective on "Hamlet," there are moments where the dramatic poetry is illuminated with an everyday realism that makes the centuries separating our world from Shakespeare’s seem negligible.
Conclusion and Details
In conclusion, Eddie Izzard’s solo "Hamlet" at the Montalbán Theatre is a remarkable achievement that showcases her impressive skills as a performer. While the show may have its flaws, it is a testament to Izzard’s bravery and dedication to her craft. The production runs until Saturday, with tickets starting at $85 + fees, and can be purchased through Ticketmaster. The show’s running time is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, including an intermission.
