Hamlet rock opera returns to P.E.I. theatre stage, 45 years later
CHARLOTTETOWN — A classic Shakespearean tragedy put to rock ‘n’ roll has given rise to moments of restorative joy to the Canadian composer witnessing its rebirth after 45 years.
First launched in 1974, “Kronborg: the Hamlet Rock Musical,” has been remounted at the Confederation Centre of the Arts for a three-week run this summer.
The Charlottetown Festival show remains a tale of a prince’s descent into despair and a family torn apart by vengeance and violence.
Yet, for its creator, Cliff Jones – now in his 70s – the musical re-orchestration by the festival’s music director Craig Fair has been a physical and emotional tonic he never expected.