Stuart FL: Comedy "I Hate Hamlet" by Paul Rudnick at A.C.T. Studio Theatre

You don’t need to be a fan of Shakespeare to enjoy this comedy about a TV star who goes to any lengths to avoid doing the role of Hamlet. Television actor Andrew Rally relocates to New York after his west coast TV series "L.A. Medical" is cancelled. He’s offered the opportunity to play Hamlet in NY’s famous “Shakespeare in the Park” but there’s one problem: he “hates Hamlet.”

Andrew settles into a Manhattan apartment that coincidentally was long ago occupied by the great John Barrymore, the Shakespearean stage and silver screen actor who became globally famous playing Hamlet. Next, Andrew’s dilemma deepens with the entrance of John Barrymore’s ghost who haunts the apartment and comes back from the grave to mentor his would-be successor. Barrymore’s ghost shares his expertise in Shakespearean acting—but life and love as well. They engage in a wildly funny duel over women, success, television, and yes, the apartment!

“I Hate Hamlet” by Paul Rudnick will be on stage at A.C.T. Studio Theatre on Jan. 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22. Performances are Fridays at 8:00 p.m.; Saturdays at 3:00 and 8:00 p.m.; Sundays at 3:00 p.m. This hilarious play is directed by Richie Lester and stars Mark Fetterly, Todd Caster, Megan Pollak, Colette Schweizer, Clelia Patrizio, and Lou Larsen. Set designer Lori Dodson.

For tickets and information, please visit actstudiotheatre.com or call (772) 932-8880. Reserved seating is $26. Gift certificates available. A.C.T. Studio Theatre is located in the Cedar Pointe Plaza, 2399 SE Ocean Blvd., Stuart. Please visit A.C.T.’s website to view their winter and spring lineup.