This week, we celebrate the birthday of the Bard himself — William Shakespeare! There’s no better way to honor his enduring legacy than by planning a visit to see one of his most iconic plays, Hamlet, at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival (ASF) in Montgomery. This production is running now through May 4, 2025, so there’s still time to catch it!

🌳 A Hidden Cultural Gem: Alabama Shakespeare Festival

If you’ve never been to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, you’re in for a treat. The venue is located in Blount Cultural Park, a 250-acre green space filled with walking trails, gardens, and lakes. The theater itself is known for its stunning architecture and inviting atmosphere, making it one of Alabama’s cultural gems.

🎭 About This Production of Hamlet

This season’s production of Hamlet is directed by actor and director Brian McEleney. This adaptation is set in the 1930s and explores Hamlet as a flawed human trying to understand the existence of evil. Grant Chapman takes on the title role, commanding Shakespeare’s language with clarity and energy. He brings Hamlet’s journey to life in a way that resonates with the audience.

Greta Lambert shines as Polonius, providing lightness and humor amidst the play’s darker moments. Her performance adds balance to the emotional intensity of the production.

This adaptation retains Shakespeare’s language but has been shortened to about two and a half hours. The production also features some creative choices, including a few gender-swapped portrayals.

One particularly curious element is the addition of seating stands on the stage itself. While it’s unclear who gets to sit there — as the seats don’t appear to be available through the usual ticketing options — they add a visually striking effect. The audience members seated there don’t interact with the cast or play a role in the action, but their presence evokes the atmosphere of a historic theater, reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Globe in London.

<— In case you need to refresh before attending!

🎟️ Plan Your Visit

Performances are running now through May 4, 2025. For more information and to reserve your seats, visit the Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s website.

🧺 Make the Most of Your Visit

Want to turn your theater outing into a full day of culture and relaxation?

1. Pack a Picnic
The lovely garden adjacent to the theater is a beautiful spot for a picnic before or after the performance. Bring a cozy blanket and your favorite snacks.

<— I took one of these. It worked perfectly!

2. Visit the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts
Located within the same park, the museum is free to enter and currently features a powerful exhibit of photographs by James “Spider” Martin, documenting the Selma to Montgomery March of 1965.

🥂 Happy Birthday, Bard!

Let’s raise a metaphorical glass to Shakespeare today by supporting live theater and immersing ourselves in one of his greatest masterpieces.

<— Salud Shakespeare!

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