Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead at American Players Theatre

Tom Stoppard makes his debut on our Hill with the play that first put him on the map. Take a peek around the corners of Hamlet with bit players Rosencrantz and Guildenstern as they explore the expansive palace of Elsinore, and their own odd little friendship. Bard-lovers take note: this is not Hamlet II. Sure, our moody Prince makes an appearance now and again, bringing with him moments of glorious Shakespearean poetry. But here, he’s the extra. And why not? The Hamlets of the world don’t corner the market on the big questions. Kings and jesters alike ponder loyalty, identity and free (or not-too-free) will. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern admirably shoulder the existential goods for all us players in a way that’s at once endearing, savage and very, very funny.