Left to right: Paul Scheb, Kendall Arringon, Minou Pourshariati, Cassandra Alexander, Dawn McCall, Brittany Onukwugha, Christina M. Segarra, Katie Frazer. (Photo by Samuel Vargas)

Shakespeare in Clark Park (SCP) is returning for its 21st season with an inventive, boundary-pushing production of Hamlet. Presented in creative partnership with Revolution Shakespeare, this free outdoor show re-envisions one of theater’s most enduring tragedies through a highly collaborative, contemporary lens.

The production will run nightly from Wednesday, July 29 through Sunday, August 2 at 7 p.m. in the Bowl at Clark Park (45th and Chester). In the event of inclement weather, performances move indoors to the Annenberg Center at the University of Pennsylvania (3680 Walnut Street). If skies are threatening but it is not raining after 5 p.m., call 215-764-5345 for status updates. You can also check real-time notices on the Shakespeare in Clark Park Facebook Page or their Instagram Profile.

Four Hamlets, One Stage

Traditionally, audiences flock to Hamlet to watch a single actor carry the immense weight of the melancholy Prince of Denmark. SCP’s bold adaptation completely disrupts that expectation by putting four distinct actors on stage to share the title role.

The production seamlessly rotates the lead responsibilities among a talented cast featuring Barrymore Award nominees, including:

• Cassandra Alexander (Jane Eyre, PAC)
• Brittany Onukwugha (An Army of Lovers, Azuka Theatre)
• Minou Pourshariati (recently featured at People’s Light)

The actors fluidly transition between Hamlet and the pivotal figures who shape his world, creating a fast-paced, deeply human, and highly theatrical exploration of identity.

“Instead of choosing one great Hamlet, we put many Hamlets onstage,” explains SCP Producing Artistic Director Shamus. “Our ensemble of four actors share the role, constantly shifting.”

A True Community Collaboration

Adapted by Revolution Shakespeare Artistic Director Tai Verley alongside Cassandra Alexander, the production blends professional artistry with a community ensemble. The community chorus acts as an external echo of Hamlet’s psychological internal conflicts, inviting the audience to experience the story from multiple perspectives simultaneously.

Recently named Metro Philadelphia’s Best Local Theatre Company, the Barrymore Award-winning Shakespeare in Clark Park has spent over two decades making high-quality theater accessible to all. Rooted in the firm belief that Shakespeare belongs to everyone, SCP creates productions that transform a beloved public space into a vibrant hub for civic dialogue and artistic expression.

This production is co-presented with the Friends of Clark Park and sponsored by The Arts League.

All performances are free and open to the public. Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics for outdoor performances.

For more information, visit shakespeareinclarkpark.org.

Shakespeare in Clark Park audience (Archived photo/West Philly Local)