We chatted with Mark about starring in The Play’s The Thing, which will run at Wilton’s Music Hall from the 1st to the 12th April.
Hi Mark, what can we expect from The Play’s The Thing? Great storytelling. Clarity. Precision. Theatrical economy, and everything geared towards making this great play as clear as possible in understanding for everyone who comes to see it.
How does it feel to be part of this production? It feels that the time is right. It is the culmination of many years’ work. It is great to have the opportunity to share this work to as many who love great theatre.
What was it in particular that made you want to be involved with Fiona Laird’s production? Fiona rang me and asked me if I would like to play a solo Hamlet – I said “No thank you, that is the most preposterous idea I have ever heard.” And went shopping. When I got back Fiona was on my doorstep with her script. Three years later here I am…. You see, you never know what’s around the corner.
How do you see the character Hamlet? Hamlet is you, me, all of us. Everyone will have an understanding of the fragility and vulnerabilities of being human. It is why we still do this play hundreds of years later and why Hamlet is the most performed play in the world. It mirrors us.
What has been the most interesting aspect on working on The Play’s The Thing? It has been interesting in so many ways but perhaps if I had to pick out one it would be that it is a test. A test of ALL my skills. My endurance, my vocal strength, as well as my commitment and experience. It is elite performing. To make it work it needs a combination of everything I have learned not only as an actor but more importantly as a human being.
Do you think that this play will make people see Hamlet differently?
I don’t think it is my place to ‘make’ someone see Hamlet differently. That isn’t any of my business. That decision is so personal to the person experiencing our production. I merely present what is written as honestly and as clearly as possible. I would be far more excited if someone said that they had a great night out and thought they had got their money’s worth. I haven’t set out to portray Hamlet ‘differently’ but if someone thinks I have on seeing it – so be it.
By Emma Clarendon
To book tickets visit: https://wiltons.org.uk/whats-on/the-plays-the-thing-a-one-person-hamlet/