Ipswich Little Theatre is preparing to stage Ophelia Chooses, a one-act production offering a fresh, female-focused take on Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
The play centres Ophelia’s perspective, giving the character more agency and context than in the original work. Cast members Mack and Corinne said the production keeps elements of Shakespeare’s text while reworking the story to explore Ophelia’s choices, Hamlet’s actions and broader themes around gender and power.
Mack, who plays Hamlet, said the role offers a rare chance to reinterpret one of theatre’s most famous characters through a different lens. Corinne, who plays Ophelia, said the production gives the character far more information and control over her story.
While based on tragedy, the cast said rehearsals revealed more humour in the script than expected, with audiences likely to find both drama and comedy in the performance. The show also features sword fighting, adding an extra layer of intensity to Ipswich Little Theatre’s intimate performance space.
The production is directed by Alison Lees and will include supper after the show, giving audiences a chance to meet the cast in costume.
Public performances begin on May 15 at the Incinerator Theatre, with tickets available through Ipswich Little Theatre’s website. Organisers say bookings are already strong, with around three-quarters of tickets sold.
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