Now Broadway’s flocking to see Prince Benedict

Theatre owners on Broadway have s ent undercover scouts to check out Benedict Cumberbatch in hamlet at the Barbican. the actor has not had any discussions about transferring with the production, directed by Lyndsey turner. But the New York theatre folk want to be prepared, in case Cumberbatch decides to make his Broadway debut in turner’s playful interpretation of Shakespeare’s great tragedy.

the audience at the first preview on Wednesday couldn’t help but feel the electricity — this hamlet certainly ranks as one of the hottest theatrical events that London has seen in some time.

as has already been mentioned here, Cumberbatch will go directly from hamlet to shoot the Marvel/ Disney film Doctor Strange and, in april, will film three new episodes of Sherlock.

he could go to New York with hamlet for the 2016 autumn season — or have a break, then do the play in the spring of 2017.

his mother, the actress Wanda Ventham, who was celebrating her 80th birthday, said she would be thrilled if her ‘Ben’ did hamlet in NY. ‘I would love it. Do you think he’d agree?’ she said, wiping away tears as she and husband timothy Carlton made their way to their son’s dressing room after the show.

‘the trouble is, I always cry,’ she admitted. ‘I think it’s just coming to terms with the fact that it’s our Ben on that huge stage, playing hamlet. I don’t think I’ve seen a stage as wide as that before, except perhaps at the National.’

CARLTON, also an actor was dabbing his eyes, too, by the way.

I admit I was intrigued when I first saw the poster (pictured), created by tim Gutt and Shona heath, but having seen the show I think I understand. It’s not a hamlet for children — but the Danish prince does indulge in some childish behaviour, and uses that as a front.

the play opens officially on august 25, by which time it could well be the most discussed work since, well, ever.