Reimagining of ‘Hamlet’ by Cast with Down Syndrome

Peruvian theatre company Teatro la Plaza will make their London debut at the Barbican Theatre this month with their joyful and defiant reimagining of ‘Hamlet’. 

The critically acclaimed production from visionary director and writer Chela De Ferrari is inspired by the famous monologue 'To Be or Not to Be' and performed by eight dynamic actors with Down syndrome.

The charismatic ensemble now takes centre stage, when historically people living with Down syndrome have been relegated to the background. Rather than a window into the world of one young prince, De Ferrari's interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy vibrantly celebrates community and resilience, fearlessly challenging wider societal prejudices and discrimination.

De Ferrari stays true to the spirit of the original while finding new meaning in the 21st century, exploring what it's like to exist in a world that often excludes difference.

Told with playfulness, humour and fighting spirit, the enchanting production weaves together a freely adapted version of the classical text with the desires and frustrations of the eight performers, who each tell their story through compelling words, protest songs, rap, physical comedy, video design, or soaring choreography.

“This production reminds us that the stage—like the world—should not be reserved for a few but must reflect the full spectrum of who we are,” said Chela De Ferrari.

“Shakespeare’s plays continue to resonate because they are full of political tension, with a complexity that speaks directly to our current moment. We are living in a time when authoritarian discourses are creating division and promoting fear.

"These ideologies often rely on the exclusion or erasure of those seen as 'different'—whether due to disability, race, gender identity, or migration status.

“In that context, giving the stage to actors with Down syndrome is not just an artistic choice; it’s an act of resistance against the idea that only certain voices deserve to be heard, or that complexity belongs only to the powerful or the able.” 

Performances will take place at the Barbican April 24 – 27 and at the Brighton Festival May 9 – 11.

Visit https://laplaza.com.pe/obras-archive/hamlet-2023/ for further details.