The play's the thing: Hamlet in Shanghai

One of William Shakespeare's most famous plays comes to Shanghai tonight as TNT's production of Hamlet begins its run over at the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre on Anfu Lu. Arguably among the most intriguing and complex of the tragedies penned by the Bard, Hamlet explores the themes of revenge, madness (both apparent and real), and, ultimately, death — all in the "rotten" state of Denmark. Featuring some of Shakespeare's most famous and revered moments (the 'to be or not to be' speech and the 'play within a play' scene, for example), the tale of Prince Hamlet's attempts to avenge his father's murder contains great drama throughout.

TNT have earned a reputation as one of the premier Shakespeare touring companies over the years, performing across the globe and picking up a host of awards along the way. Under the direction of Paul Stebbings, this production aims to remain faithful to the spirit and the style of Shakespeare's own time and theatrical resources, which should make for a raw and sincere performance of the playwright's classic.

The British touring troupe will be treading the boards until April 12th (taking a night off on the 7th), with ye olde English dialogue and Chinese subtitles. The show will start at 7:30pm and tickets will cost you between 150-280RMB, or 800RMB if you want to go VIP for the night.

Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre: No. 288 Anfu Road; 上海话剧艺术中心, 安福路288号
Ticket hotlines: 021-62172426; 021-62173055