A History of the RSC in 50 Objects (Online)

POSTER

Hamlet, 1975

Director:  Buzz Goodbody

Buzz Goodbody (1947 – 1975) was the first female director to work for the RSC. She believed that theatre should have an immediacy and intimacy that would make it accessible to all, particularly the young. In 1973 she drew up recommendations for the use of a tin hut on Southern Lane which became The Other Place. This small, basic theatre suited Goodbody's vision for an experimental and informal performance space.

Goodbody's production of Hamlet opened at The Other Place in April 1975 and was well received by critics. The cast included Ben Kingsley as Hamlet. Goodbody focused the audience's attention on the domestic and personal tragedy that surrounds the central characters. The austere setting reflected the designs at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Tragically, Buzz Goodbody committed suicide days after the opening night of Hamlet. Her unique approach influenced productions at The Other Place for years after her death.