“I Hate Hamlet” - The Review

Comedy comes in all shapes and sizes - lowbrow, slapstick, wry, witty, punnish - you name it. Most comedy in the U.S. can be defined as “broad” - meaning it appeals to most people. Every now and then you run into a comedy that dares to be intelligent - and that’s what you’re in for when you see “I Hate Hamlet,” which is on this stage this week, presented by the Marshall University Department of Theatre.

The show centers around a young TV actor named Andrew who’s been offered a role playing Hamlet in New York’s Shakespeare in the Park. By no small coincidence, he’s also just rented the apartment that once belonged to the great Shakespearean actor, John Barrymore. Of course, as the title tells us, he hates the play. The problem is, his girlfriend, Deidre, his realtor, Felicia, and his agent, Lillian, all want him to take the role.

Since Felicia is psychic, they decide to hold a seance to try to contact Barrymore. (Note that the three women represent the Witches at the beginning of Macbeth - the Crone, the Matron and the Maiden. Just one of many “Shakespearean Easter Eggs” for the observant.)

Thankfully, the seance succeeds (sort of) and Barrymore arrives to coach the young actor, passing along some valuable acting tips - and more than a few life lessons, as well.

This is a “small” show, with only six cast members - but they’re all “choice” performers - among the best in MU’s Department of Theatre.

Nick Reynolds plays Andrew, and demonstrates why he’s one of the best comedic actors around. Nick’s done a lot of great work over the years, and this show is just the latest in a long line of excellent performances.

Travis Caffrey plays what may be the toughest role in the show, John Barrymore. To fill the shoes of a larger-than-life actor and do so convincingly - all while wearing tights - is no easy task, and he delivers a great performance.

Karah Merkins plays Andrew’s love interest, Deirdre, and turns in a wonderful performance - she’s funny, adorable, sexy and quirky throughout - a terrific character and a wonderful job by Karah.

Samantha Elkins pays Felicia the real estate agent who sets Andrew up in the apartment, and she’s a delight - she’s very funny, and her New Yawk accent is terrific!

Mary Williams plays the character role of Lillian, Andrew’s "Mother Hen" agent. Her accent is excellent, and she provides one of the most touching scenes in the show, as she reminisces on her own encounter with celebrity.

Last (but certainly not least) is Jeremy Plyburn as Gary, the quintessential Hollywood producer who tries to lure Andrew back to Hollywood. Jeremy is hilarious in this part, representing the ugly underbelly of the industry. (His idea for a TV show is a scream.) This is Jeremy’s stage debut with MU - I expect to see lots more great performances from him.

The other stars of the show are the set and the effects. As always with Marshall’s productions, the set is amazing - a towering apartment that harkens back to the glory days of the theatre. (The fireplace seems a little impractical, but that’s a minor quibble.) The special effects are somewhat understated, but all the more magical for it. Barrymore’s entrance, for example, is perfect.

Oh, and did I mention that there's an awesome sword fight in there? I love a show with action and comedy!

Excellent work by the cast, the production team and the directing staff - with a special “well done, old man” to director John Colclough, who’s racked up an impressive run of outstanding shows in his near-decade with MU. This is another great one to add to the list.

When you attend a show at Marshall, you know you’re in for a special evening, and “I Hate Hamlet” continues the tradition with a show that’s intelligent, clever and quite funny. You’ll enjoy it, even if you’re not a fan of the classics.