Review: I Loved I HATE HAMLET

What can an actor do when his series is cancelled and he isn't sure where to go from there? Head to NYC and perform Shakespeare in the park, of course. But what if that actor is scared of playing Hamlet and not sure of his own abilities? And what if he finds himself in John Barrymore's old apartment and Barrymore's ghost shows up? And what if his girlfriend is pushing him towards Hamlet and away from the bedroom? Throw in a crazy, psychic realtor and a stern German agent with the hots for Barrymore and you have the makings of I HATE HAMLET, the latest offering from South City Theatre in Pelham.

To say I laughed last night would be an understatement. This show is cleverly written and SCT's production takes that even further with good acting, clever staging and perfect timing. Cliff Keen does a admirable job of directing a show that is well paced and designed.

Rush Brunson as Andrew Rally, the lost and anxious actor, is funny and lovable. He plays well off of the other characters as well as being funny on his own. In his more serious moments, and there are a few, you believe his self-doubt and fear.

JJ Marrs as John Barrymore puts in a stellar performance. He is funny, charming, self-deprecating and conceited all at the same time. He doles out advice and one liners with ease. His expressions as others talk are fun to watch and his switch from a washed up drunk to a swashbuckling prince, a womanizer to a lost soul and then back to self-assured teacher are fluid and remarkable. He knew exactly when to pause and when to ham it up.

But I have to say that Katie Hall Milligan as Deirdre McDavey turned in the performance of the night. This is the third time I have seen her on stage and each time I have seen the growth this fine actress is making. She is vivacious and funny. Her scenes with Brunson are endearing and yet she is able to bring just the right amount of quirkiness to her character. She is definitely one to watch.

Ashley Richardson as Felicia, Lisa West as Lillian and Robert Permenter as Gary turned in solid performances and add to the hilarity.

Lighting effects, the set construction, and costumes are all well done. I will say the audience, yours truly included, enjoyed the pre-show and intermission music immensely and even sang along with Madonna as intermission ended. It made me chuckle. When Barrymore continued singing with it as the second act opened, I just had to laugh out loud. I have to say, I laughed out loud a lot last night and it felt great!

With another basically full house and productions that keep getting better and better, South City Theatre is the place to be. I HATE HAMLET runs June 3-4 and 9-11 at 7:30 and their only matinee is on June 5 at 2. Go to www.southcitytheatre.com or call 205-621-2128 for tickets and information.

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