Hamlet, Prince of Denmark

OK. Full disclosure here. I would turn up to watch Izaak Lim recite the phone book, so the opportunity to see him play one of the world's greatest roles, in one of Shakespeare's best drama, directed by perhaps Perth's finest director, had me very excited.

I was expecting an excellent show and I was not disappointed. Izaak was a brilliant Hamlet. Totally immersed, he delivered an intelligent performance that was both captivating and won audience empathy.

The supporting cast were, for the most part, exceptionally good. Michael Hogden was a strong, believable and dislikeable Claudius, whose relationships with Hamlet and Gertrude (well played by Gail Lusted) created a believably dysfunctional family. Hamlet's scene with Gertrude was particularly strong, and the best incarnation I can remember.

Matt Longman was a lovely Horatio, a true and loyal best friend, while Michael Bingaman and David Bowyer worked well together as Guildenstern and Rosencrantz. Jesse Bartle was an interesting casting as Laertes, his boy-man easily led to revenge contrasting nicely with Hamlet's more cautious approach.

Andy King looks the perfect Polonius and was an excellent foil for frustration and humour, while Brianna Williams was a fragile, easily broken Ophelia, her tiny frame emphasising her pawn-like position. Among the smaller roles I particularly enjoyed Maja Liwszyc's chain-smoking Player Queen and Paul Montague's literal Grave-Digger. Gerald Sanyangore made a promising stage debut in several small roles.

The set and stage floor were beautifully painted by Tim Prosser, while lighting - especially during the Play Within the Play, was well controlled by Hwyel Williams, and Graeme Johnston provided unnerving sound effects. Andy Fraser's fight choreography was strong and well executed.

While not all the minor performances were quite up to scratch, this outstandingly directed production had the audience captivated throughout. An excellent start to the year for the Old Mill.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Arnold Wong