Hamlet at the New York Classical Theatre

Every time summer rolls around, we get excited about the free shows put on by the New York Classical Theatre in Central Park. We didn't have to wait so long this year, though, as NYCT set up spring quarters at the World Financial Center, where we recently saw a lively production of Hamlet. Eschewing the brooding and foreboding that so frequently characterize (and, sometimes, sink) stagings of Hamlet, this one emphasizes the play's intensity and even its humor. Scampering through the WFC from scene to scene helps, of course, but most of the spiritedness comes from Justin Blanchard's captivating Hamlet, who roars through scenes with all of the late-adolescent force Shakespeare intended.