Andrew Ralley seems to have it all: fame and critical acclaim for his lead role in a television series; a rich and gorgeous girlfriend; an utterly devoted agent; the ideal New York City apartment; and the opportunity to star as Hamlet in Central Park. However, beneath this lovely surface of success is any number of problems. In fact, his series has been cancelled, his girlfriend is clinging to her virginity with morals of steel, and he has no desire whatsoever to play Hamlet, regardless of the respect it may earn him as an actor. To make matters worse, a casual séance summons the ghost of John Barrymore, who takes up residence in Ralley's fabulous apartment.
Sound implausible? How 'bout funny? Maybe both? Decide for yourself as Carrollwood Players produces the Paul Rudnick comedy I Hate Hamlet through the end of the month; Charley Belcher directs.
This article appears in Jan 4-10, 2006.