Laertes Loves Hamlet Loves Ophelia 

Reviewed by Julia Stier 
Lucid Dramatics 
Through June 22 

In Laertes Loves Hamlet Loves Ophelia — a modernized take on Hamlet playing this month at the Hollywood Fringe Festival — Lucid Dramatics explores mental illness, those who suffer from it, and the emotional toll it can take on the people around them. 

After the death of his father, Hamlet (Katelyn Schiler) seeks refuge in the home of his oldest friends, Laertes (Payden Ackerman) and Ophelia (Kelly Pierre). However, their devotion to Hamlet is tested when he starts claiming that his uncle murdered his father and stuns them with his harsh and sometimes offensive outbursts. With tensions rising, Ophelia and Laertes must decide what really is the best way to help their friend.

Schiler is thrilling and chilling as the disturbed Hamlet. She can turn on the charm in an instant as, with a haunted look in her eye, she carefully walks the line between charismatic and controlling. As Hamlet, she wields the weapon of manipulation expertly, and is extremely skillful at making sure her emotional needs are the main focus of Laertes and Ophelia’s main attention. Ackerman’s Laertes is so unwavering in his dedication to Hamlet that it is not hard to guess the secret feelings he’s harboring (though the title does give that away). And Pierre’s Ophelia, though equally enamored, is not as blinded by her love for him. She finds strength in her ability to see him for what he really is, and blossoms into a woman with her own voice. 

Though there are a few superfluous scenes, these three talented writer/performers bring a fresh perspective to Hamlet that may make you question the Bard’s original tale. 

The Broadwater (Blackbox), 6322 Santa Monica Blvd.; Sunday June 17^th at 2:30 p.m., Friday June 22^nd at 8 p.m.; through June 22^nd. www.Hff18.org/5184; Running time: 1 hour.