Chicago Shakespeare Theater Stages Acclaimed Play "Hamnet"

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The stage adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's 2020 book "Hamnet" is making its North American premiere at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. The play, written by Lolita Chakrabarti, captures the tragedy and comedy surrounding the death of Shakespeare's 11-year-old son Hamnet in 1596, which is believed to have inspired the Bard's epic tragedy "Hamlet." Directed by Erica Whyman, the production features strong performances from the ensemble cast, including Kemi-Bo Jacobs as Agnes Hathaway and Rory Alexander as William Shakespeare.

Why it matters

The play explores the deep connection between the tragedy of Hamnet's death and the creation of one of Shakespeare's most renowned works, "Hamlet." It provides insight into the personal circumstances that may have influenced the Bard's writing and the enduring impact of the loss of his young son.

The details

The stage adaptation captures the warmth and compassion wrapped around the deep sorrow of Hamnet's death, as well as the flashes of passion and rage that emerge. The production features snippets from Shakespeare's plays, with the ensemble cast bringing the words to life. The set design by Tom Piper evokes the Globe Theatre, where many of Shakespeare's plays were first performed.

• Hamnet Shakespeare died in 1596, about five years before his father's epic tragedy 'Hamlet' premiered.
• The stage adaptation of "Hamnet" is running at Chicago Shakespeare Theater until March 8, 2026.

What’s next

The production at Chicago Shakespeare Theater is scheduled to run until March 8, 2026.