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October 9, 2012 | Theatre,
Listen to the HAMLET podcast with actor Michael Benz!
By Jamie Gahlon
Last week I had the opportunity to speak with an old friend, Michael Benz, who happens to be playing Hamlet in the upcoming Shakespeare’s Globe production at ArtsEmerson. One of the exciting things about this production of Hamlet is their choice of casting a youthful Hamlet, as Shakespeare intended. David Dower, ArtsEmerson’s Director of Artistic Programs, moderates this conversation, and Michael and I touch on our experiences of being young and working in the theatre and how our Jesuit education as “Men and Women for Others” at Georgetown has shaped our way. We tried to keep the reminiscing to a minimum, but if you want to hear about the crazy theatrical experiences Michael and I shared way back when, just find us at the bar!
Coming to see Michael Benz as a grown up young man, was such a thrill for both my daughter and I – we were North London neighbors of the Benz family, and watched Michael grow up. He has always had talent since he was a little boy and was a special gift to the American School of London, where they all went to school.
it was such a thrill to see his maturity playing Hamlet, as well as his deep commitment to the part; it was all from the heart. To see his surprise when we came to the front row for the Q & A – he is exactly as he seems, such passion in his words.
Go Michael – we love you.
The Mellon family