Bernhardt

Janet McTeer is arguably one of the greatest stage actresses of this generation. An Oscar nominee, she has also won numerous awards such as the Golden Globe, the Olivier Award, and the Tony Award. She is playing Sarah Bernhardt, the greatest actress of her generation, in a comedy by Pulitzer Prize finalist Theresa Rebeck.
The audience is posed with questions regarding women and power, and what it is like to think and feel in theatre. It constantly talks about the impact of Shakespeare in the way we look at not just theatre, but life itself.

Set in 1899, this is the story of Sarah Bernhardt as she decides to play Hamlet, in spite of the narrow social mindsets that she had to brave. It was taboo to dress up as a man, and attempting something like this could have ruined her career entirely. The play explores Sarah’s relationship with one of the most famous characters created by William Shakespeare. The play emphasizes how Sarah Bernhardt was someone who didn’t wait for permission, and did what her heart desired.
The French actress feels that the play Hamlet lacked something and didn’t quite connect with her while she rehearsed. She decides that the play needs to be re-written by Rostand. This makes him quite surprised and very frustrated. People in Paris are talking behind Sarah’s back, wondering if she is trying too hard. Will the role destroy her reputation? Can Sarah Bernhardt deal with failure, should it be the outcome of her endeavour? These are some of the issues that Sarah will have to figure out in this show.

Shakespeare Lovers | Romantic Comedy Enthusiasts

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