Characters and relationships

Who's this? Clive Wood plays Claudius.

Context: Polonius is the kind of right-hand-man no politician can be without. You have only to look at the modern spin-doctor to see the strategist's influence. Was he loyal to the previous regime and the Old King Hamlet? What does he want out of the situation? How much does he know? Is he dangerous? The character can do much to contribute to the general air of mistrust and disintegration this production favours.

Did you know? The actor playing Polonius has a tall imposing on-stage presence which helps the interpretation of the character as a spy-master rather than a fool. He can be more Secret Service than kindly uncle.