Coming Soon – Ely ADS Production of Hamlet

After several years of successful outdoor Shakespeare productions, Ely Amateur Dramatic Society's February production of 'Hamlet' is to be held in the Needham's Hall, at Ely College.  

"I wanted a more claustrophobic and intense feel to this production and performing indoors suited 'Hamlet' so much more," said director Mike Holland. "We had a terrific response when casting the production and I'm delighted to be working with such a talented cast."

Chris Hudson who plays Hamlet is an experienced amateur actor and he was tempted to Ely by the challenge of the role. "This was a real chance to tackle a part that so many actors long to play," he said. "I couldn't pass it up."

'Hamlet' is the first of several productions being produced by the Ely ADS in the society's 125th anniversary year. Long standing member Ann Dix stars in 'Last Tango In Little Grimley' in June, part of a Summer Evening of comedy, which sees the society put on two One Act plays.

In August Mike Holland directs 'Equus' in the Studio Theatre and in October Patrick Cain is the director for 'When We Are Married' by JB Priestley.

It is no mean feat for any society to manage 125 years and a dinner-dance for members past and present is to be held in July to celebrate this milestone.

"I think the range of productions we have chosen for this year goes some way to explain our durability," said secretary Annabel Reddick.

"Hopefully there is something for everyone from Shakespearean tragedy to classic comedy and I hope we might tempt people who haven't tried amateur theatre before to come along and see what we are all about."

Tickets for 'Hamlet' are available from Burrows Bookshop priced at £7 (telephone 01353 669759). Performances are nightly at 7.30pm on February 13-16, 2013 at Needham's Hall, Ely College.