Photos: First Look At GERTRUDE AND CLAUDIUS At Orlando Shakes

Mark St. Germain's Gertrude and Claudius, based on the novel by John Updike, commissioned and produced by Orlando Shakes in partnership with UCF runs from February 20 - March 23, 2019. Gertrude and Claudius will play in repertory with Shakespeare's Hamlet. Tickets (starting at $30) are available now by phone (407) 447-1700 ext. 1, online at orlandoshakes.org, or in person at the John and Rita Lowndes Shakespeare Center (812 East Rollins Street).

Serving as a prequel to Hamlet, Gertrude and Claudius brings a new point of view to the classic tale of guilt and revenge. The infamous couple serve as the villains in Shakespeare's work, but are offered a new exposition in this tale of good intentions and family dysfunction. With ominous hints at the familiar story to come, Gertrude and Claudius is a play that shakes up what you thought you knew about Elsinore.

"Staging the World Premiere of this imaginative prequel in repertory with Hamlet gives audiences a chance to appreciate how the scripts dovetail to give us a deeper understanding of Shakespeare's work," said Director Jim Helsinger. "John Updike's novel gives us the opportunity to see the other side of the story, then Mark St. Germain has brought it to life in his adaptation."

Photos Credit: Dynamite Film