Rather than sitting back and following the story of how a Danish prince seeks revenge on the murder of his father, those in attendance are invited to come forth and recite sections of the play. Those wanting to take a lesser role can be the chorus, chanting or echoing words spoken by the characters, including Hamlet himself.
It’s an inventive approach watching cast members guide the audience in their participation. Cards are handed out with the lines to be spoken, or longer passages appear on two large screens. It’s all done in a friendly and relaxed manner; cast members stay nearby to prompt the audience – volunteer when it’s time to speak the lines. It’s fun to watch, brings the story to life, and creates a more engaging experience as we follow Hamlet’s journey.
(L to R) Damon Horowitz as Hamlet, Equiano Mosieri, as the gravedigger
Director Sybille Bruun explains, “The audience isn’t invited to simply observe Hamlet—they complete it. Every person who enters the theatre becomes part of the storytelling, bringing their own history, imagination, and humanity into Shakespeare’s world. The result is a production that is never the same twice because every audience creates a Hamlet that has never existed before and will never exist again. That’s the extraordinary promise of live theatre: not just to witness a story, but to become part of one together.“
Bruun, Executive Director of The Shakespeare Forum, has more than twenty-five years of experience directing, producing, and coaching Shakespeare. David Horowitz, who adapted this version, is an Ivy League philosopher and educator, widely recognized for bringing philosophy beyond academia—to TED, Silicon Valley boardrooms, San Quentin State Prison, and now to the stage through this innovative theatrical experiment.
The performers, all experienced Shakespearian players, bring new energy to these characters we’ve known all these years. No matter how many times these plays are presented, the stories continue to be relevant and as powerful as ever.
Get thee to the theatre!
Becoming Hamlet evolved from a successful developmental workshop last June and has now moved to the Five Angels Theatre at 52nd and 10th Avenue for its run that ends October 3, 2026.
For more information, go to the 52nd Street Project
Top: Damon Horowitz (center) with (L to R) Truman Gaudoin, Desiree Baxter, Jim Pratzon and Tyler Moss
Photos by Valerie Terranova Photography
