It had previously been reported that the summer production would feature Tony Award winner Richard Easton as Polonius and Crimes of the Heart's Lily Rabe as Ophelia. Due to scheduling conflicts, both actors have withdrawn from the production.
In their absence, the Public has announced that Sam Waterston – who starred as Hamlet in the last Shakespeare in the Park mounting 33 years ago – will play Polonius. And, last summer's Romeo and Juliet leading lady, Lauren Ambrose, will appear as Ophelia. Performances will be May 27-June 29 with an official opening set for June 17.
As previously confirmed, Andre Braugher appears as Claudius, alongside the newly cast Margaret Colin as Gertrude; David Harbour as Laertes; Kevin Carroll as Horatio; Hoon Lee as Rosencrantz; Piter Marek as Bernardo and Fortinbras; Greg McFadden as Guildenstern; Julio Monge as Osric and Francisco; Paul O'Brien as Voltemand and Priest; Gilbert Owuor as Marcellus; Jay O. Sanders as Ghost, Gravedigger and Player King; and Miriam Silverman as Player Queen.
The ensemble comprises Christopher Bonewitz, Matt Carlson, W. Tre' Davis, Stephen James King and Dana Lyn.
The Hamlet creative team includes scenic design by David Korins, costume design by Ann Hould-Ward, lighting design by Michael Chybowski and sound design by Acme Sound Partners. Summer Support tickets are currently on sale for a tax-deductible contribution of $160 for Hamlet or $165 for Hair. Summer Supporters earn reserved seats for their contributions to fund the Delacorte stagings. This opportunity, offered for a limited time, is available by calling (212) 967-7555.
Performances of Shakespeare in the Park are Tuesday-Sunday at 8 PM. Tickets are free and are available on the day of the performance (two per person) at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park beginning at 1 PM, or by entering the Public's online ticketing lottery at www.publictheater.org.
The closest entrances to the Delacorte are at 81st Street and Central Park West or 70th Street and Fifth Avenue.
For additional information about Shakespeare in the Park, call (212) 539-8750 or visit The Public Theater website at www.publictheater.org.
