Negga’s Hamlet brings fresh clarity to the court of Denmark

This Hamlet belongs to the sad-eyed, slight and sulky Ruth Negga, whose vulnerability sharpens to vigour as her purpose becomes clear

Ruth Negga in Hamlet at the Gate Theatre in Dublin

Hamlet

By William Shakespeare

Gate Theatre, Dublin

Runs until October 27

Rating: ****

‘Frailty, thy name is woman,” the Prince of Denmark laments, as he tries to come to terms with his father’s sudden death. Uttered by Ruth Negga, who stars in this taut, thrilling production from Yaël Farber, the famous line takes on new significance. This is not the first time Shakespeare’s adolescent hero has been played by a woman: that honour ...