Eddie Izzard: Hamlet At Lighthouse Poole
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Z Bonds
Eddie Izzard returns to the stage, but not as we have come to know her; the polyglot linguist and flamboyant comedienne/performer. In this subtle, charismatic and dynamic performance, we saw a nuanced thespian, courageous and bold in this marvellous adaption of Hamlet – totally solo.
Entering the theatre to a backdrop of an unfurnished, black-curtained stage seemed strange, yet actually served to ensure there were no other distractions – Izzard commanded our attention from the outset and the use of a single spotlight cast fabulous shadows that really enhanced the atmosphere. The scene was set we were in Denmark. It was midnight.
Izzard’s strong stage presence, energy and humour made this an unmissable show and one that I have been looking forward to with great anticipation for good reason.
Izzard explained her own transition from comedy to drama as Shakespearean (including the disclaimer that this was not a comedy in the event of anyone being mistaken by this performance!) and from the outset demonstrated strong but selective use of the 4th person to draw the audience in. The Fourth Player in Hamlet being the role that delivers the prologue to the play-within-a-play. That said, chosen moments showed subtle touches of comedy and the odd double-entendre that were appreciated greatly by all.
Of the many characters played by Izzard during this one-person show, my favourite had to be Ophelia. Her songs depicted her sorrow and madness beautifully and were poignant moments in the play.
Izzard’s fabulous use of movement and mesmerising hand gestures enticed us into the story and even the most novice of thespians (myself included) felt able to follow and feel the characters’ might with the help of fabulous facial expression. True to the text of Shakespeare throughout, one wonders how anyone can even begin to memorise a script of such dimension, let alone the character and performance elements.
What a bold and unreserved performance! I feel really blessed to have had the opportunity to see Hamlet performed in such a memorable way in the intimate setting of Lighthouse – a must see for those studying or considering performing Shakespeare at any level.
Nominated for the New York Drama League’s Distinguished Performance Award and the Outer Critic’s Circle Outstanding Solo Performance Award, the play has been adapted by Mark Izzard and directed by Selina Cadell and is presented by Mick Perrin Worldwide Ltd in association with PBJ Management.
“An impressive sweeping performance.” ★★★★ The Telegraph
“When it gets to the famous soliloquies, Izzard… smashes all three of the great ones.” ★★★★ The Chicago Tribune
“Eddie Izzard’s Hamlet is spectacular.” Dame Judi Dench
Eddie Izzard was at The Lighthouse, Poole, for one night only on Wednesday 22nd October 2025 and I was so pleased to be able to experience her magic. The worldwide tour continues in Exeter tomorrow. With all but one of her remaining UK tour dates selling out, this is a show not to be missed!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets from £42.00
Running time: 2 hours and 20 minutes, including an interval.
Eddie Izzard – Hamlet was at Poole Lighthouse for one night only. It is touring the UK from 23rd October (Exeter) to December 21st (Bexhill on Sea)
For more information and to book tickets visit https://www.eddieizzardhamlet.com/schedule