MONMOUTH —  The Theater At Monmouth will open its darkly passionate, fast and furious telling of “Hamlet,” perhaps the most famous play written in the English language, on Friday, July 24, at Cumston Hall. 

The play, complete with fight choreography, is set in Denmark’s Elsinore Castle. Haunted by the words of his father’s ghost, Hamlet’s tragic cycle begins with spying and distrust as the young prince plans to expose his uncle’s murderous deeds. The classic final scene unfolds in bloodshed.

Associate Artistic Director Jeri Pitcher directs this production
starring Josh Scharback in the title role with Janis Stevens, Paul
Coffey, Bill Van Horn, Mark S. Cartier, and David Greenham featured in
the cast.

A series of preshow and post-show discussions will take place with each showing of “Hamlet.” The discussions are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

Theater At Monmouth will also offer other free preshow events, including live music, green shows and sword fighting demonstrations. These typically begin at 6:45pm.

In addition to July 24, “Hamlet” will be presented at 7:30 p.m. on July 25-26 and Aug. 1, 4, 13, 15, 19 and 21. Tickets are $26 for opening night, $24 for adults, $22 for seniors and matinees, and $20 for students. For tickets or more information, call the box office at 933-9999 or www.theateratmonmouth.org.

Besides “Hamlet,” TAM’s 2009 repertory includes Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap,” Georges Feydeau’s comedy “A Little Hotel on the Side,” and Kenneth Grahame’s “The Wind in the Willows.” In autumn, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Carousel” will close TAM’s 40th anniversary season, featuring professional leads and community members in the chorus.