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In the Studio: Erica Whyman: Directing Hamnet

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Erica Whyman

18/04/2023 GMT

Erica Whyman: Directing Hamnet

BBC World Service - In the Studio, Erica Whyman: Directing Hamnet

The RSC stages the world premiere of Maggie O'Farrell's award-winning novel

The Royal Shakespeare Company stages the world premiere of Maggie O'Farrell's award-winning novel

Maggie O’Farrell’s historical novel Hamnet was published in 2020 to great critical acclaim, winning the Women's Prize. It tells the story of a gifted herbalist, Agnes Hathaway, who is married to a young William Shakespeare. We follow her on her journey as they meet, marry, and later come to terms with the death of their 11-year-old son, Hamnet. 
 
Now, the Royal Shakespeare Company is putting Hamnet on stage for the first time in Shakespeare’s birthplace of Stratford-upon-Avon. Presenter Dan Hardoon follows the RSC’s Acting Artistic Director Erica Whyman throughout the rehearsal process. We also hear from award-winning playwright Lolita Chakrabarti on the challenges of adapting the novel for the stage, and from cast and crew as they get ready for opening night. 
 
Presenter/Producer: Dan Hardoon 
Exec Producer: Rebecca Armstrong for the BBC World Service

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