Benedict Cumberbatch in Hamlet

The production ofHamlet in which stars Benedict Cumberbatch is incredibly interesting, and not only because he is an excellent actor. The lighting of the stage is very focused: all is dark except Hamlet himself. This is interesting because in most productions of Hamlet that I have seen, there arre other things on stage, objects that are themes and symbols. In this case all is focused on him, and the noose that he has tethered about his neck. This, combined with the darkness of the stage, lends a certain power and focus to the play that is not present in many other renditions. Watching, you can see how the darkness of the stage not only lends these qualities, but also an increase in tension, as the darkness is somewhat symbolic of the death and unknown that Hamletis wrestling with in this moment. What an excellent production!