NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Hamlet, possibly the most famous play in the English language, will open Feb. 17 at Vanderbilt University.
The Vanderbilt Department of Theatre presents the play at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 17, 18, 23, 24 and 25 at Neely Auditorium, with a 2 p.m. performance on Sunday, Feb. 19.
The title role will be played by Vanderbilt senior Jason Dechert, and the director is Terryl Hallquist, associate professor of theatre and co-director of the Vanderbilt University Theatre.
Written by William Shakespeare at the dawn of the 17th century, Hamlet is a departure from the traditional revenge drama in that its primary focus is the moral dilemma of the title character rather than the violence of his actions. Hamlet struggles to keep his moral integrity in a corrupt world.
“Hamlet is faced with a situation he didn’t create and is obligated to seek revenge,” Hallquist said. “He’s damned if he does, and damned if he doesn’t.”
Admission is $8 for the general public, $5 for graduate and professional students, and free for undergraduates with Vanderbilt identification. Tickets may be reserved by calling 615-322-2404.
Media contact: Jim Patterson, (615) 322-NEWS
jim.patterson@vanderbilt.edu