Graduate Rhys Anderson on playing Hamlet

Rhys Anderson, a graduate of Central’s BA (Hons) Acting CDT course reflects on his experience playing Hamlet in TNT Theatre’s touring production. 

Can you tell us about your journey from studying at Central to landing a role in Hamlet?

I was cast in a fantastic play called Dialektikon which was performed at the Park Theatre the year I graduated from Central in 2018. I performed alongside another actor on this job who went on to work for a company called TNT Theatre. A few years later, on his recommendation to the director, I auditioned and landed a role in the production ‘Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter’. On completing two successful European tours of this show, the founding director offered me the role of Hamlet in their 2024 tour across Europe and South America. So, work breeds work!

Could you provide some insights into how you prepared to play Hamlet? 

The role of Hamlet is immense, truly astronomical and all-encompassing. It’s a challenge not to be underestimated. I immediately delved into learning my lines, realising the importance of mastering them thoroughly and quickly becoming completely familiar with the script. Given the sheer volume of lines to learn, I practically rehearsed in my sleep!

Shakespeare’s writing is so brilliant that once I began, it didn’t take me long to learn the lines. Prior to rehearsals, my knowledge of Hamlet was limited. I mean, of course I knew some of the big soliloquies, but I didn’t know the meat of the play. It truly is fascinating and portraying Hamlet is a pure joy. He’s a complex character, brilliant with words and deeply intellectual, yet there is such a sense of freedom to him.

My brain still can’t quite comprehend the brilliance of the character! For me, it’s about understanding the dialogue, connecting with the other actors on the stage, and effectively telling the story. Those are the most important things to me – clarity and telling the story.

Can you talk a little about the collaborative process of working with the director, fellow cast members, and production team to bring Hamlet to life on stage?

We didn’t have long to rehearse, just two weeks, but I was lucky in that several members of the company had previously performed the show. This certainly proved helpful during the rehearsal period. Upon our arrival in Munich at the start of January, we started with initial costume fittings followed by five days of music rehearsals led by our talented composer, Tom Johnson. After this, we began piecing together the entire play.

Were there any particularly memorable moments or challenges you’ve faced during the run, and how you have overcome them?

A particularly memorable moment for me was after our debut performance in front of an audience. Despite my nerves leading up to that first show, it went surprisingly well. I proved to myself that I could do it and it boosted my confidence moving forward. Throughout a six-month run, there will inevitably be challenges. I always make sure that I am warmed up before each show and ensure I get plenty of rest. Maintaining a good sleep and exercise routine, along with a healthy diet, is extremely important. Stamina is crucial for this role!

What do you hope audiences take away from the production?

I want the audience to fully immerse themselves in what could arguably be one of Shakespeare’s greatest plays, if not the best play ever written. I want them to leave feeling like, “Yeah, that’s what theatre is all about!” A night that everyone enjoys, leaving them with a lasting memory.

Reflecting on your experience studying on Central’s BA (Hons) Acting CDT course, how do you feel the course has prepared you for this role, and your career to date?

I feel like I have always gone back to my training – it’s truly invaluable to me. My time at Central was brilliant, and I’m incredibly grateful for having the opportunity to train there. Something I always do when delving into a new script and working on a play is creating character lists. It’s a fantastic method for thoroughly understanding the script. It prompts you to read through the entire play repeatedly, dissecting every aspect of the storyline and enabling you to view everything as a whole, beyond just your own character. It’s about understanding what your character says about others within the world of the play, as well as what other characters say about yours. I’ll always remember when I was first introduced to the Michael Chekhov technique during my first year of training – it truly changed my approach as an actor. And the Meyerhold Biomechanics training we did in our first year with our exceptional teacher and director, Sinead Rushè, will forever stay with me.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals for the future? Are there any particular roles you’re more drawn to?

For me, it’s all about staying active and working consistently in the industry, collaborating with talented and kind-hearted people. My career so far has been exclusively in theatre, and it’s honestly been a lot of fun. I’ve had the privilege of working on some remarkable projects and have learned an incredible amount since graduating from Central. I’m eager to keep learning and evolving – I’m constantly seeking to enhance my craft, learn new skills, and strive for perfection.

I’ve played a lot of troubled characters – some deeply dark and malicious individuals. However, I love the challenge that comes with this. Playing such characters involves manipulating the audience, compelling them to empathize or fall in love with these types of people. It’s like holding a mirror up to the audience, prompting them to question their beliefs, morals, and perceptions of the world. Of course there will always be particular roles I’ll dream of playing. Honestly, I never expected to be offered the role of Hamlet, but I’m incredibly happy and grateful that it came my way. I’ve learned so much during the process. I think that the opportunity to play Macbeth, if it ever comes, would be both an honour and an brilliant challenge! Yet another one of Shakespeare’s greats!

Lastly, what advice would you offer to aspiring actors?

Ultimately, what I really think it boils down to in the end is: learn your lines, don’t be late and don’t be an asshole.

Visit Arted Net’s website for more information about this production of Hamlet.