His Majesty, The Queen

(2 of 2)
Stratford also offers a highly entertaining and accessible Hamlet. Paul Gross of Due South stars; what he lacks in nuance he makes up in energy. This Hamlet openly weeps when he's upset and shakes uncontrollably when he's afraid. It's a big performance and a crowd pleaser. The supporting cast is strong, especially Jerry Franken as Polonius and Domini Blythe as Gertrude. Joseph Ziegler has staged the play with a clarity that allows the poetry of Shakespeare's masterpiece to be heard.

Who's that Fiddler on the Roof? Blond-haired, blue-eyed, slender Brent Carver as Tevya? Well, yes, a different Tevya, not Zero Mostel's clown or Topol's weighty Everyman. Carver is quieter, more introspective. He has a softer rhythm. But Carver is another winning performer with real soul. Susan Schulman has staged the show with style, joyous in parts and moving in others. She has added to the legacy of one of the American musical's crowning achievements.