Snow drifts and burst pipes led to the cancellation of Hamlet’s entire scheduled run at the Rye Creative Centre (RCC) at the beginning of the month. But thank goodness, the organisers managed to find another date and last Saturday March 10, a group of intrepid culture vultures crossed the bridge to see a spectacular show.
The minimal stage set belied an atmospheric and complex production with a great set of performances from across the cast. Emily Carding was outstanding as Hamlet. In other versions I have seen, this character can come across as weak and vacillating (all that “To be, or not to be” business). But Carding came across as strong – tortured yes, but in command of her story. Hers was a Hamlet with balls.
Yumino Seki as the Ghost was appropriately haunting. This part is another which can jar with modern audiences, but she did an excellent job at representing the spirit of the role.
Sabina Arthur as Ophelia was sympathetic rather than pathetic. The royal couple played by Sean McLevy and Elizabeth McNally were believable and added a depth of maturity to the production.
Hastings-based Carding will be taking a new version of Hamlet to the Brighton Fringe in May. Like her one-woman Richard III, the audience will also be stars of the show.
Photos: Seana Lanigan