5 hours Ago By Post-Courier
Moresby Arts Theatre (MAT) has taken a bold step in reimagining Shakespeare’s classic Hamlet through its latest youth-driven production, Hamlet Jones 675, which opened this week to strong anticipation and excitement. Set in the emotional battleground of a contemporary high school, Hamlet Jones 675 blends Shakespeare’s timeless exploration of betrayal, grief, identity, and truth with cultural backdrop of modern PNG. With the pervasive influence of social media woven into the story, teenage friendships and rivalries take center stage in a gripping and relatable adaptation.
Directed by 16-year-old Kabake Lansana, a Grade 10 student from Kundu International School, alongside MAT’s Robert Vaso, the production showcases the energy, creativity, and determination of young Papua New Guinean artists. Lansana, who was awarded 2024 Youth Arts Programme (YAP) Best Stage Director, said he was inspired to merge Shakespeare’s story with the realities of PNG youth culture. “I wanted to show that classic stories can still feel real and personal when we bring them into our world,” Lansana said.
“This version of Hamlet is full of PNG identity, mixing culture, language, and real emotions. Even though the original play is over 400 years old, the themes still hit today.” The entire cast and crew are made up of students and recent YAP alumni, who have spent weeks balancing school, rehearsals, and production work to bring the show to life.
“Balancing everything wasn’t easy,” Lansana added, “but everyone showed dedication, creativity, and real heart.” Hamlet Jones 675 is part of MAT’s broader commitment to youth development and safety. Ahead of opening night, the cast and crew participated in a Safeguarding Workshop, facilitated by the Incentive Fund and the PNG-Australia Partnership, aimed at educating young artists about child protection and creating a safe and inclusive creative environment.
The production team also received vital support from sponsors Credit Bank PNG and the Incentive Fund, ensuring resources for set design, costumes, lighting, and workshops. MAT expressed its gratitude to the sponsors for helping empower the next generation of PNG theatre artists. Opening night was a resounding success, and Hamlet Jones 675 will continue its run with performances tonight at 7pm, Saturday at 1pm and 7pm, and next week Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
Tickets are available for purchase at the MAT box office, Foodworld Waterfront, or via the Ticket Bilum app. Ticket prices are K50 for adults, K20 for students, K15 for student MAT members, and K40 for general MAT members. Matinee shows are K20, with a special group rate of K100 for 10 students.
For more information, email [email protected] or call 325 3503 / 7079 8282. Moresby Arts Theatre once again proves that with vision, support, and youthful passion, classic stories can find thrilling new life on Papua New Guinean stages.
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