Alumni of Orlando Shakes present a production of 'Hamlet' in a fundraising effort for theater education
The Orlando Shakespeare Theater is set to host an unforgettable event, as The Young Company (TYC) prepares to bring Shakespeare's classic tragedy, "Hamlet," to life. This production, performed by alumni of TYC, serves as a fundraiser for the Orlando Shakes Education Department, marking a significant moment in the history of this esteemed educational program.
Established in 1992 by Dr. Stuart Omans and Judith Rubinger, TYC was conceived as the primary educational branch of Orlando Shakes, with a mission to nurture young talents in theatrical arts, particularly in Shakespearean theater. Each year, TYC produces engaging and educational performances, often focusing on classical works.
The upcoming "Hamlet" performance is no exception. This artistic reunion on an Orlando Shakes stage will feature a talented cast, including Fletcher McDaniel as Hamlet, Megan Borkes as Horatio, and Ashleigh Ann Gardner as Guildenstern. The production, directed by Monica Long Tamborello, has been condensed into a two-hour performance, paying tribute to the original practices of Shakespeare's times. The actors are responsible for their own costumes, and the sets are being created from leftovers from previous productions such as "Two Gentlemen of Verona" and Orlando Shakes' children's production of "Stuart Little."
Rehearsals for the "Hamlet" production have been likened to a trip back in time by Fenner, a participant in TYC from 1999-2001, who is among the oldest alumni involved in the production. Keith Traver, the director of the production, has been the education coordinator for Orlando Shakes for the past year and was a participant in TYC himself in 2002.
The one-night-only, pay-what-you-will benefit performance is scheduled to take place in 2025. The performers in the "Hamlet" production have day jobs ranging from administrative assistant to immigration lawyer to engineer. Despite their busy schedules, they come together each evening to rehearse, ending each session with the cast joining hands in a circle and saying, "May our circle remain unbroken until we're together again."
The Young Company is a program that introduces high school actors to professional theater, providing them with a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and perform. Today, TYC is run in conjunction with the W. Daniel Mills Apprentice Program, continuing its mission to educate and engage young talents in theatrical arts.
This production of "Hamlet" is more than just a theatrical event; it's a celebration of the works of Shakespeare, a testament to the enduring power of TYC, and a fundraiser for the Orlando Shakes Education Department. For those interested in experiencing a timeless performance while supporting a worthy cause, the "Hamlet" production promises to be an event not to be missed.
- The media will undoubtedly cover the educational milestone, as The Young Company's production of "Hamlet" serves both as entertainment and a fundraiser for the Orlando Shakes Education Department, showcasing the latest advances in home-and-garden set designs created from reutilized materials.
- In the world of theater, technology plays an essential role in enhancing performances, and the upcoming "Hamlet" production is no exception, as the actors responsible for costume design experiment with innovative approaches to historical attire.
- The Orlando Shakespeare Theater's production of "Hamlet" promises to be an unforgettable event for the lifestyle-conscious, providing a unique opportunity to witness a condensed, two-hour performance that pays tribute to the original principles of Shakespeare's times while supporting the continued education of young theater enthusiasts.
