Young thespians staging 'Hamlet'

This season's Youth Theatre production at the Putnam County Playhouse will feature two versions of William Shakespeare's "Hamlet."

Presented Saturday at 7 p.m., director Keith Bodnarick will lead middle school thespians in a shortened and modernized version of the classic play.

Caroline Good will direct a high school group in a rock and roll interpretation of the tragedy, titled "Spamlet."

Good, who adapted the play into the new version, said the high school actors are encouraged to give input on their roles.

"During rehearsals, the kids fill in lines and help change scenes," she said. "During the performance, there is a kind of improvisation element."

With influences from spoofs such as the Broadway play "Spamelot "and the DreamWorks film "Shrek," the adapted version of "Hamlet" will feature humor and popular music.

The play features over 20 songs, with tracks such as "Ghostbusters" and "Thriller".

"The music allows people to look at the story at another level," Good said. "It gives it a more universal appeal."

According to Good, she adapted the Shakespeare tragedy using the original language, but made it lightened and more humorous.

"The kids do some dancing in the play," Good said. "They really enjoy doing it and own up to it."

Aaron Hunter will play the title character with Sarah Dory, Emily Buchanan, Ty Fauvergue, Michael Walters, Lee Hayes, Clay Spencer and Jessica Watson in other leading roles.

The middle school performance, directed by Keith Bodnarick, will be a shorter version of "Hamlet."

Instead of using traditional period costumes for the production, the actors will be wearing more modern clothes.

"The middle schoolers will be doing more of a Gothic, emo, teen angst version of the play," Good said. "It will be easier for the youth to identify with."

Dylan Bodnarick will play Hamlet in this performance with Taylor Runnels, Libby Brush, Sophia Carillo, Joe Lippard and Joe Pejril in other leading roles.

Jon Good, Matthew Watson and Andrew Haynes will assist with technical elements of the production.

The event is open to the public, but since it is a one-time performance, persons wishing to attend should arrive early.

Tickets to the event are $3 general admission and are only available at the door.

According to Good, the playhouse has been full in previous years' performances.