We invite you to one of the most impressive cinematic performances in recent years. Oscar-nominated Benedict Cumberbatch (BBC series 'Sherlock,' 'The Imitation Game,' 'Frankenstein' broadcast to cinemas in the NT Live series) takes on the title role in Shakespeare's great tragedy.

Directed by Lyndsey Turner and produced by Friedman Productions, the Sonia production was broadcast from the Barbican Theatre to cinemas across Europe and beyond on October 15, 2015, and broke all records for popularity among such broadcasts. The Shakespearean tragedy became the fastest-selling event in the history of theatre in London. All tickets for the anticipated performances sold out before rehearsals began in the theatre.

Author: William Shakespeare
Duration: 220 minutes
Cast:
Benedict Cumberbatch (Hamlet), Siân Brooke (Ophelia), Nigel Carrington (King Cornelius), Anastasia Hille (Queen Gertrude), Ciarán Hinds (King Claudius), Kobna Holdbrook-Smith (Laertes), Jim Norton (Polonius), Morag Siller (Fortinbras)
Creators:
Lyndsey Turner (Direction), Es Devlin (Set Design), Katrina Lindsay (Costumes), Luke Halls (Video Projections), Jane Cox (Lighting), Jan Hopkins (Music)

The staging transports the story of Hamlet to contemporary times to emphasize the ongoing relevance of Shakespeare's masterpiece. It also places a strong emphasis on the political and espionage themes contained in the play. Under unexplained circumstances, the old Hamlet, the powerful King of Denmark and father of Hamlet, dies. The crown is taken by his brother Claudius. The widow of the king, Gertrude, Hamlet's mother, quickly gives her hand to the usurper. Hamlet suspects his uncle of conspiracy. As the country prepares for war, the royal family falls apart. Forced to avenge his father's death while paralyzed by the task before him, Hamlet opposes his situation, acting against reason and the safety of the country.