After celebrating Blessed Marie Rose’s 200th birthday on Thursday and supporting Spike and Splash on Wednesday night, AHN students finished off last week with an  on-campus modern version of  Hamlet at the end of the school day on Friday, October 7.  Presented by Asolo Repertory Theatre, based in Sarasota, the acting troupe made its second visit to Academy,  performing Hamlet Redux and continuing their tradition of performing modern interpretations of classic works.

After the 50-minute presentation, students participated in a Q and A session with the actors and directors.  Of particular interest to the Bayshore Players, who are in practice for their fall musical Grease on October 21-23,  was the use of lighting by the Asolo players to effect different settings and atmospheres.

Last year Asolo presented a new take on the  Sophocles play Antigone in their version Antigone Now.  However, many students found Hamlet easier to follow this year, especially because the actors performed familiar soliloquies from the Shakespearean play.

Students in tenth grade study Antigone, and students in twelfth grade study Hamlet. This year’s performance was  funded by the Fine Arts Department through the support of Mrs. Sharon West, Department Chair, and  Ms. Stefanie Rotolo, Drama and Dance Teacher.  The Bayshore Players and drama students  welcomed the acting troupe on their arrival and made them feel at home.

Hamlet Redux actors will perform Shakespeare’s original text but because the show runs approximately 60 minutes, the play serves as an overview of the original. This presentation at Academyis one of many slated for presentation to schools and communities in Asolo Theatre’s 2011 Fall Tour.