Review: HAMNET at American Conservatory Theatre

Maggie O’Farrell’s fictionalized account of Agnes Hathaway was a solid hit when released in 2020, winning literary awards for its unique perspective on the little-known woman maligned by scholars. Adapted for the stage by Lolita Chakrabarti (Life of Pi, Red Velvet, Hymn) and presented by The Royal Shakespeare Company, Hamnet weaves a mystical tale of her romance with the young Will Shakespeare, their estranged relationship, and her fierce devotion to her three children.

Chakrabarti’s adaptation, also used for the Academy Award winning film, is a feminist story at a time when women were subjects of their husband with little choice. Both she and Will come from harsh parenting – Agnes’s monstrous stepmother and Will’s overbearing father. Their romance seems like a fairytale, until the burden of three children pushes Will to London where he discovers theatre, fame, and infidelity.

Act One develops Agnes’ character- an herbal healer, mystic, and seer. Kemi-Bo Jacobs stars as Agnes (the g is silent) and commands the stage. When eleven-year-old Hamnet dies, Agnes is bereft. Her healing powers having failed, she blames herself and is grief-stricken. When she learns that Skakespeare’s new play is titled Hamlet, she’s incensed. When she sees young Hamlet performing his famous Act II, Scene 2 monologue, she’s entranced, seeing her late son in a vision. Her grief is released and her Hamnet can rest.

Tom Pipers’ scenic design is subtle and understated yet an integral character of the play. The Royal Shakespeare cast is a joy to behold, and Jacobs delivers a powerful and emotional turn.

Hamnet continues through May 24th. Tickets available at http://www.act-sf.org/  or by calling the box office at 415-749-2228.

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