Discover the Soul Behind the Crown: Hiran Abeysekera's Hamlet Takes on New York
The Transatlantic Journey of a Timeless Tragedy: From London to Brooklyn's Stage
British theater director Robert Hastie highlights New York's multifaceted nature, a characteristic he finds mirrored in its vibrant theater scene. Hastie, who recently concluded a successful run of his Olivier Award-winning production "Operation Mincemeat" on Broadway, is now poised to bring his contemporary rendition of "Hamlet" to the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). This modern interpretation, first staged by the National Theatre in London in 2025 where Hastie serves as deputy artistic director, marks BAM's twenty-first production of Shakespeare's classic since its inception in 1861. At its core is the Sri Lankan actor Hiran Abeysekera, whose compelling and immediate performance injects new life into the Danish prince.
Hiran Abeysekera's Magnetic Portrayal: A Hamlet for the Modern Age
Abeysekera's breakout role as Pi Patel in the West End's 2022 production of "Life of Pi," which later transferred to Broadway and earned him a Theatre World Award, showcased his talent. In Hastie's "Hamlet," Abeysekera's interpretation, visually enhanced by costume and stage designer Ben Stones's sleek, contemporary aesthetic, sees the prince donning a provocative earring and imbibing champagne, yet it is the actor's profound emotional depth that captivated nearly a thousand London theatergoers. Hastie emphasizes Abeysekera's unconventional yet deeply empathetic connection with the audience, describing it as playful, confrontational, and often mischievous, but always direct.
Revisiting Hamlet: A Conversation with the Star
Despite his quiet demeanor and graciousness offstage, Abeysekera acknowledges the daunting task of reprising his role for Hamlet's month-long run at BAM. He expresses eagerness to witness how the New York audience will influence his performance, particularly in his delivery of the soliloquies, which he aims to transform into direct dialogues with the viewers. He reflects on his initial awe and subsequent realization of the immense weight and pressure associated with performing Hamlet at the National, a task he found both fulfilling and challenging. Abeysekera aims to engage the New York audience in a similar fashion to his experience with "Life of Pi," where audience participation was notably vibrant.
The Intimate Dance Between Actor and Audience: Unveiling Hamlet's Inner Turmoil
Abeysekera delves into the intense physicality and emotional richness of his Hamlet. He contemplates the prince's open vulnerability with the audience, perceiving it as a survival mechanism—a way to articulate overwhelming thoughts and feelings that would otherwise consume him. This interaction evolves throughout the play, as Hamlet's perception of the audience shifts from a trusted confidante to a potentially unreliable friend, revealing the nuanced psychological layers of the character's journey.
Sustaining the Artist: Rituals for Well-being Amidst Demanding Performances
To cope with the strenuous demands of the role, Abeysekera maintains a balanced routine. In London, he finds solace and relaxation in his household shared with family and friends. Physically, he engages in calisthenics, running, and tree climbing—a practice rooted in his Sri Lankan upbringing that he finds liberating. Mentally, he turns to Buddhist sutras, using their recitation as a form of meditation to achieve focus and calm. These practices are crucial for his well-being, allowing him to deliver the powerful performances audiences have come to expect.
Navigating Identity: A Global Talent's Sense of Belonging in Britain
Abeysekera openly discusses his complex relationship with belonging in Britain. While he feels deeply connected to the British theater scene, he describes a persistent sense of not fully belonging to the country itself, exacerbated by the limitations of his global talent visa. Despite nearly two decades of residency and significant contributions to the British economy and arts, the visa's restrictions serve as a biennial reminder of his legal status, contrasting sharply with the profound acceptance and support he receives within the artistic community. This dichotomy highlights the unique challenges faced by international talents contributing to diverse cultural landscape
