A depressed Hamlet embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering Romeo and Juliet, feuding sisters Kate and Bianca, gold-digging Petruchio, power-hungry Lady Macbeth, and his old girlfriend Ophelia in a goofy Shakespeare mashup hitting the stage in Windsor.
The outdoor production, titled Cheer Up, Hamlet!, is a remount from an original production written by Korda Artistic Productions founder Tracy B. Atin, in partnership with A Palpable Hit Productions. It runs July 3-5 and July 10-11 at the Fogolar Furlan Club, with showtimes at 8 p.m. on July 3, 4, 10, 11, and a 2 p.m. matinee on July 5.
All-ages outdoor experience
Producer Gemma Cunial described the show as a parody of Hamlet mixed with other Shakespeare works, featuring parodies and familiar songs. “It’s going to be a goofy time,” she said. The goal is to stage all performances outdoors, weather permitting, with seating provided. If poor weather strikes, the play moves inside the Fogolar Furlan Hall.
The musical mash-up is directed by Korda’s resident director Jeff Marontate, with choreography by Hope Forman and music direction by Atin. The cast includes Tracy B. Atin, Noah Ball, Gemma Cunial, Hope Forman, Calum McMillan, and David Sivak.
Tickets and dining
Online tickets are $20 on SHOWPASS (showpass.com/cheeruphamlet/) or at the door for general admission. Dinner can be purchased separately by calling the Fogolar Furlan at 519-966-2230.
“This is our new reimagining of it outside as a unique experience for theatregoers in Windsor,” Cunial said, noting the light-hearted, all-ages appeal of the production.
