Shakespeare has been adapted by many opera composers, with several adaptations having been lost to history. Ambroise Thomas's Hamlet (1868) has survived thanks to a lush and stirring score paired with a riveting storyline. The libretto was adapted from Shakespeare’s play by Jules Barbier and Michael Carre. Although there are entire passages of dialogue lifted from the play, the opera is a variation on the theme and characters of Hamlet. This production, recorded live at the Barcelona Opera in 2003, stars the great English baritone, Simon Keenlyside, in the title role.

Sung in French with English subtitles, the opera runs three hours, plus intermission. All adults are welcome.

This program is generously funded by the Friends of the Edgartown Free Public Library.