Excitement Builds in Bryan/College Station for ‘I Hate Hamlet’
Mark your calendars, folks! Anyone looking for a friendly dose of humor and theatrical flair in Bryan/College Station should mark December 5 through 15, 2024, as a date not to be missed. The community theater scene is buzzing with excitement as StageCenter is set to produce the delightful comedy I Hate Hamlet, a play that cleverly intertwines the worlds of acting, fame, and the eternal struggles of artistic expression.
What’s the Play About?
I Hate Hamlet is all about Andrew Rally, a not-so-famous actor who is given the opportunity of a lifetime: he lands the role of Hamlet in a prestigious Broadway production. It sounds great, right? But here’s the catch: Andrew isn’t just battling stage fright and self-doubt; he’s also haunted by the ghost of the legendary actor John Barrymore, who once played Hamlet to great acclaim. Barrymore provides both entertainment and challenges, as he helps Andrew navigate the complex world of acting, fame, and the battle between art and commerce.
This witty play offers sharp dialogue, a funny yet poignant storyline, and offers a peek into the mind of an actor grappling with the pressures of success and identity. It’s a tale any aspiring actor—and anyone who enjoys a good laugh—can relate to.
When and Where to Catch It
Performances will run from December 5 to 15, 2024, with special matinee shows on December 8 and 15. That gives you plenty of chances to snag a ticket to what promises to be a hilarious and memorable theater experience. Gather your friends, family, or that one person who always says they want to “do something different,” and make plans to see this show!
StageCenter: A Community Treasure
If you didn’t know, StageCenter is the first community theater in Bryan/College Station, and it has been a hub for creativity and performance for about five decades. The theater has produced around 500 plays—from dramas to comedies, farces to musicals. StageCenter has built a reputation for bringing engaging performances to the local community, and I Hate Hamlet is set to continue that tradition.
Get Involved: Auditions and More!
Interested in becoming part of the magic? StageCenter invites newcomers and seasoned actors alike for auditions! The auditions are open to everyone and typically consist of two nights of cold reads, making it accessible whether you’ve been on stage before or not. Rehearsals generally take place Monday through Thursday from 7 to 9 PM, with Saturday morning work days from 10 AM to 2 PM. What’s more, it’s all volunteer based with no cast fees required.
Worried about making it onto the cast list? No need to sweat! Cast lists are posted on Facebook, making it easy to keep track of who will be lighting up the stage. And if you’re more interested in contributing behind the scenes, they always welcome crew members. So whether you’re looking to shine in the spotlight or prefer to work behind closed curtains, StageCenter has a spot for you!
A Theater Oasis
StageCenter has enjoyed a diverse history over the past 50 years and strives to continue fostering an appreciation for live narrative theater in the Bryan/College Station area. It’s an exciting time for local theater enthusiasts, and I Hate Hamlet is just the cherry on top of a vibrant community theater scene.
So grab your friends, brush off your acting shoes—or simply sit back and enjoy the show—because this December promises to deliver laughs and some thought-provoking moments. Don’t miss out on what’s sure to be an unforgettable performance filled with laughter, wit, and a touch of theatrical ghosts!
