Off the back of directing the critically acclaimed, award winning Henry V in 2014, Director Damien Ryan will deliver to Alice Springs Bell Shakespeare’s new production of Hamlet, one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies.

“Hamlet is a detailed family portrait in the political landscape of a “rotten” Denmark, a country furiously preparing for war, not realising that the enemy lies within,” said Marion MacLean, Acting Director of Araluen Arts Centre. 

“Hamlet, deeply saddened by the sudden death of his father, is further shocked to find his mother quickly remarried to his uncle, the dead King’s brother.

“Haunted by his mother’s perceived crime, Hamlet is a mass of contradictions and a modern anti-hero.

“He stands before us and speaks the truth, confronting us with just how fragile our ideals of family, love, community, loyalty, faithfulness and the courage to act can be.”

Bell Shakespeare Director Damien Ryan said: “Hamlet is one of the most complete experiences theatre can provide – extraordinary poetry, intense passion, dazzling intelligence, terror, casual slaughter, friendship, humanity, great humour and great grief.

“Shakespeare casts his spell through the sheer scope and grandeur of this story - beginning with a dead man walking and ending with a stage littered with bodies.”

Hamlet is touring to 28 centres around Australia from July, 2015 and will be on stage at the Araluen Arts Centre, Thursday 17 September at 8.00pm

Ticket prices are adults for $55, concession for $50 and Friends of the Araluen Arts Centre for $45 and are available from the Araluen Box Office on (08) 8951 1122.

The Araluen Cultural Precinct is the central arts and cultural hub in Alice Springs, boasting an Art House Cinema, Theatre, Art Gallery and Museum, the Cultural Precinct is a great place to visit whether you’re a local or just passing through.

To check out what else is on at the Araluen Arts Centre, please visit http://www.araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

Media note – Marion MacLean, Acting Director of Araluen Arts Centre on 8951 1127