Discover the captivating world of Ngaio Marsh’s 'Hamlet' - The 1943 Production Script, a must-have for theatre enthusiasts and Shakespeare lovers alike. This exquisite paperback edition, measuring 148 x 210 mm with 134 pages, delivers an unmatched glimpse into the innovative staging of one of the greatest plays ever written. Dame Ngaio Marsh (1895–1982), celebrated as one of the foremost crime writers of the 20th century, also achieved great acclaim as a Shakespearean director. In 1943, she astoundingly transformed 'Hamlet' through a modern-dress production, establishing her reputation within the vibrant New Zealand theatre scene, particularly with the Canterbury University Drama Society.

This unique production typescript features not only Marsh’s expertly-crafted script but also the previously unpublished incidental music by renowned composer Douglas Lilburn. Included are select archival photographs that visually commemorate this historic wartime performance, allowing readers to engage with the past. An insightful introductory essay by Polly Hoskins delves into the staging of the production and its relevance during World War II, enriching your understanding of Ngaio Marsh’s directorial genius.

Whether you're an avid collector of Shakespearean literature or seeking to deepen your appreciation of New Zealand's theatrical history, this edition serves as an essential resource. We happily combine shipping, and as a NZ-owned business based in Auckland, we ensure your purchase is in stock locally, eliminating any unexpected import charges, customs duties, or taxes. Order your copy today and step into a remarkable chapter of theatrical history!

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 148 x 210 mm
Pages: 134
Bind: paperback
Authors: Ngaio Marsh, Polly Hoskins Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Publication Date: 01-09-2019

Dame Ngaio Marsh (1895–1982), a distinguished University of Canterbury alumna, was one of the greatest crime writers of the twentieth century. Marsh was also a gifted Shakespearean director, establishing her reputation in 1943 with the Canterbury University Drama Society modern-dress production of ‘Hamlet’. Fast-paced, with a deftly-cut script, and featuring especially commissioned incidental music by Douglas Lilburn, Ngaio Marsh’s production of ‘Hamlet’ was a hit with wartime audiences. Marsh’s 1943 ‘Hamlet’ production typescript is reproduced here for the first time, together with Lilburn’s previously unpublished music and a selection of archival photographs. An introductory essay by Polly Hoskins examines the staging of the production and the wartime context in which the play was performed, offering broader reflection on Marsh’s compositional approach, and a note from Robert Hoskins introduces Lilburn’s music. This edition makes the perfect starting point for enriching our understanding of Ngaio Marsh as a Shakespearean director and producer, and presents a fresh perspective on New Zealand’s theatre history.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.