Logo - Feel The Words

Hamlet Quotes from Actors on Shakespeare's Role

Shakespeare's toughest role

Several actors describe Hamlet as one of the most demanding parts in classic Drama, requiring both range and discipline.

If I ever play Hamlet, it'll be in a dress!

Quotes by Matt Lucas

Hamlet is a little daunting.

Quotes by Kyle MacLachlan

I played Hamlet, I played Chekhov and Ibsen and all the classics.

Quotes by Harvey Korman

You have to learn the language of Hamlet.

Quotes by Edward Bond

Depth Quotes

Hamlet is the result of Shakespeare's work on Brutus.

Quotes by Dakin Matthews

Hamlet is an astonishing intelligence.

Quotes by Ben Kingsley

Frequently Asked Questions

Has any actor joked about how they might play Hamlet?
Yes, one actor jokes that if they ever took on Hamlet, they'd want to do it in a dress, a playful nod to unconventional casting choices.
Is Hamlet considered an intimidating role?
Yes, one quote simply calls the role a little daunting, acknowledging its reputation without going into much further detail.
How does Hamlet compare to other classic roles actors have played?
One actor lists Hamlet alongside Chekhov and Ibsen roles, treating it as part of a broader body of classic work rather than an isolated achievement.
What do the quotes say about understanding Shakespeare's language?
One quote stresses that performing the role well requires genuinely learning the specific language and rhythm Shakespeare wrote into the character.
Do the quotes describe an emotional connection to the role?
Indirectly - the challenge and reward described often tie into deeper Emotion, even when the quotes stay brief.

Others focus on the density of Shakespeare's Literature, admitting the language itself takes real effort to master.