What happens when the most famous ghost in literature runs the risk of being forgotten? Crownless is a bold new spin on Hamlet, narrated by the ghost of Hamlet’s father. He has a score to settle, but there’s just one problem: his only daughter isn’t interested in playing the part. He waits for her in the garden... and she never shows up. But revenge is not something a king lets go of easily. He's forced to weave together a new story... and ends up haunting her coat.
What begins as a demand for vengeance, unravels into a fractured relationship exposed and forced into confrontation. Using actual text from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and blending it with contemporary female poetry, this one-woman show is a Hamlet fashioned in a whole new style. It’s a ghost story, a coming-of-age tale, and a love letter to saying “no.”
With sharp dialogue, unexpected laughs, and a coat full of unresolved trauma... this show walks the line between comedy and heartbreak. Perfect for lovers (and haters) of Shakespeare, poetry fans, supporters of feminism, and anyone who’s ever argued with a parent’s voice in their head.
Age recommendation: 14+
Duration: 60 mins
Price: £15
Languages: English
Countries: United States
Content warnings: References to violence & alcohol. Swearing.
Written & Performed by: Ashley Amodeo
Directed by: Lise Olson
The Voice of Getrude: Chrysten Peddie
The Garden Voices: Lola Beal, Elly Hocking, & Emma Graveling
Featuring text by: Leland Bardwell, Emily Dickinson, Louise Glück, Amanda Gorman, Jane Hirshfield, Denise Levertov, Sylvia Plath, Maya C. Popa, & William Shakespeare
'Genius!' ★★★★★
'Unique & striking!' ★★★★★
'A wonderful journey'