I'm not a Shakespeare expert by any means, nor is he my favorite author yet, but every once in a while I think: "Hey, I wonder how Shakespeare's doing?" This time it was Hamlet's turn, because I had a ticket for a production that was organized on a stormy autumn night in my hometown's gorgeous medieval castle (pictures here & here). We exchanged our phones for skulls and wandered through the rooms in groups. Combining puppet theatre, singing, the art of clowning and pop culture references, the whole thing was amazing, but it was useful to read the play first in order to understand all the nuances.

In the end, I ended up liking the Grus Grus Theatre's production more than the original. When something's as legendary as Hamlet, there's always the fear that it doesn't live up to expectations. Hamlet definitely has interesting themes ranging from madness, guilt, and revenge, so all the pieces are there for a great tragedy, but as a whole it just didn't do anything for me. I did write down a couple of great quotes, and I'm happy that I finally got around reading something that is such a big part of culture, but that's all. Although I have to end my review on a high note: I had really missed Shakespeare's humor. Maybe I should try one of his comedies next?

Anyway, don't mind me. There's a reason why Shakespeare is popular, so you won't lose anything if you read his plays. Go Will!

This above all: to thine own self be true,
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.