BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – IU Auditorium proud to present The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, a striking reimagining of Shakespeare’s enduring tragedy, in a new dance work on October 14 at 7:30 p.m., marking its IU Auditorium debut.

 

Co-created by choreographer Guillaume Côté and director Robert Lepage, Hamlet, Prince of Denmark immerses the viewer in a world of deceptive appearances, where ghosts and humans rub shoulders in a minimalist scenography. Light, shadows, and transparency play a central role. This metaphorical reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s narrative shared through dance, draws the fine line between what is and what is not in the vagaries of the mind and the movements of the body.

 

Hamlet is in a dark place, full of doubt, and perhaps touched by madness. After the death of his father under questionable circumstances, he loses his footing. Is his entourage lying to him? Is his mind, muddled with apparitions, failing? When reason wavers, how can we distinguish between truth and falsehood, how can we distinguish between the faithful and the traitors?

 

“This reimagining of one of Shakespeare’s classics through dance is something you won’t want to miss,” said IU Auditorium Executive Director, Maria Talbert. “I was able to see the work in Chicago last year and this immersive production of shadows, light, and choreography speak volumes in place of words, inviting the audience into Hamlet’s shattered mind with poetic minimalism and haunting beauty. We’re thrilled to host its Bloomington debut.”

 

Education and Engagement Opportunities

 

Pre-Show Talk with Associate Producer Anisa Tejpar 

October 14: 6:30–7:15 p.m., Fine Arts 015

Arrive early before the performance for an insightful conversation led by Anisa Tejpar, Associate Producer of Côté Danse. Gain a deeper understanding of choreographer Guillaume Côté’s bold reimagining of Hamlet and discover how movement, music, and design come together to bring Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy to life through dance. This is a free event and open to public. Those interested are encourage to RSVP here.

 

Post-Show Discussion with Dancer and Choreographer Guillaume Côté

October 14: at conclusion of performance, on stage

Ticket holders are invited to stay after the performance for an engaging conversation with choreographer and dancer Guillaume Côté. Hear firsthand about his creative process, the inspirations behind Côté Danse’s reimagining of Hamlet, and the challenges and joys of bringing Shakespeare to life through dance.

 

The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark at IU Auditorium is presented in partnership with the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs’ Master of Arts in Arts Administration program. IU Auditorium’s 2025–2026 season is presented by Curry Auto Center, Cook, The Herald Times, Upland Brewing Company, World Arts Inc., Boston Scientific, IU Printing Services, and B97.