Word: simonizes
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...seemed until last summer when London’s Royal National Theatre opened a new production of Hamlet starring Simon Russell Beale. I had the privilege of watching the show while it was still in previews, sitting flush with the right-hand wall in the very last row of the balcony. It was probably the worst seat I have ever had in a theater, but it was undeniably one of the most incredible theatrical experiences of my life. Charles Spencer of London’s Daily Telograph said that Beale’s was a performance...
...more than a pick-up team whose only real purpose is to facilitate a single commanding performance. There are exceptions. Paul Bazely as Guildenstern shows a remarkable depth of character, portraying a young man torn between duty to the reigning monarch and a friendship he truly holds dear. Similarly, Simon Day as Horatio does an impeccable job instilling some signs of life, all be they muted, in what may be the flattest character ever written. But for the most part all parties involved, from Claudius to Laertes, show a distinct lack of subtlety or careful characterization. In those instances where...
Nevertheless, at the center of it all remains Simon Russell Beale’s glorious performance. He has grown uneven with the various changes that have happened around him, but even at his worst he is a sight to behold. Most performers have it written into their contracts that they do no more than one production of Hamlet in a day. More would be too draining, both emotionally and physically. And yet, Beale has been playing the Dane for nearly a year now. For some such a run might be no trouble at all. But for a performer...
...Simon Russell Beale...
...through the darkness to their places. Later, in case the interruptive energy contained within the house was not enough, various public vehicles, anything with a siren really, decided to lead an impromptu combination of drag race and parade outside of the theater. It was only minimally disruptive, as Simon Russell Beale was merely attempting to come to terms with his imminent death. It was truly impressive to witness what we, as a culture, could achieve...