It’s ‘Hamwet’ as rain stops play

To flee, or not to flee? That was the question facing the directors of Stafford Festival Shakespeare last night as torrential rain and howling winds lashed the open air set.

The cast of Hamlet – or ‘Hamwet’ – initially braved the monsoon-like conditions with heroic efforts to defy the downpour.

The actors remained composed as parts of the set were blown off stage and the noise of the wind stifled their lines. And, even though many were dressed in skimpy summer costumes, they barely flinched as they were drenched by the deluge on the play’s opening night.

But with action scenes and swordfights lined up for the second half of the play, organisers suspended the performance shortly before the interval out of concern for the actors’ safety.

The event, which is held every year at Stafford Castle, sees the cast take to the stage completely exposed to the elements.

The stalls for the audience are covered but last night’s rain was so heavy, people in the front rows were unable to escape a soaking every time the wind rippled through the canvas roof above them.

Despite the weather, last night’s performance had drawn a sizable crowd who filled most of the seats.

And there were few complaints when an announcement was made telling the audience that the organisers were suspending the production temporarily “for reasons beyond our control”. Many people saw the break as a chance for a welcome toilet break and hot drink.

But after organisers assessed the conditions, it was announced that the play would have to be abandoned.

Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, the company behind the event, pledged to find weather-beaten audience members replacement seats for another performance over the next fortnight.

Justine Watkins, spokeswoman for Stafford Festival Shakespeare, said: “The actors wanted to go on but with them due to be running around the set in the second half and acting out the swordfights, we couldn’t let them carry on for their own safety.”

Organisers of the festival are hoping today’s blue skies will hold out for tonight’s performance. Meanwhile, the Forestry Commission is keeping its fingers crossed for veteran rock legends Status Quo, who will be appearing at the Cannock Chase music festival tonight.