Hamlet at Kronborg Castle all summer
Every day you can experience a mix of original, newly written, and improvised scenes from Hamlet at Kronborg Castle.
The scenes are performed in the ballroom and in the castle courtyard. Note that they can be changed. You can check the day’s program and locations on the board in the courtyard upon arrival.
All scenes are performed in modern English.
Hamlet Highlights takes place from 11 am to 4 pm. You are welcome to explore the castle throughout the opening hours from 10 am to 5 pm.
11.00 – 11.20 The Hamlet Shuffle
11.20 – 11.30 The Duel: Hamlet vs. Laertes
11.45 – 12.00 Love Scene
12.15 – 12.35 / The Hamlet Shuffle
12.45 – 13.00 The Court scene
13.15 – 13.30 The Prayer Scene
13.45 – 14.05 The Hamlet Shuffle
14.15 – 14.30 Love Scene
14:45 – 15:00The Court Scene
15.15 – 15.30 The Prayer Scene
15:45 – 16:00The Hamlet Shuffle
Original scene
The Court Scene
From: Eugène Delacroix, 1843
King Claudius consolidates his authority and his marriage to Queen Gertrude before the court, while Hamlet stands apart, marked by grief and suspicion. Claudius and Gertrude urge Hamlet to put his mourning behind him, but the prince is deeply shaken by his mother’s swift marriage to his uncle. Beneath the formal words and festive setting, unrest is simmering, and the struggle for power is beginning to take shape.
From: Eugène Delacroix, 1843
Original scene
The Prayer Scene
From: Eugène Delacroix, 1843
Claudius confesses before God that he murdered his brother.
He knows it is unforgivable, but he is not willing to give up the power he has gained. He prays for the strength to repent, but the prayer remains empty. Hamlet discovers him kneeling at his altar and draws his sword, but hesitates. If he kills Claudius while he is praying, the king will go to heaven. Instead, Hamlet decides to wait and strike when Claudius is sinning, so that his soul will be damned.
From: Eugène Delacroix, 1843
Home of Hamlet
Read more about Hamlet Highlights and the story pf how Kronborg Castle became the home of Hamlet.
10% discount
FAQ
What are Hamlet Highlights at Kronborg?
Hamlet Highlights are short live performances of selected scenes from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, as well as newly written and even improvised scenes performed by actors at Kronborg Castle – the place that inspired the tragedy.Where does Hamlet Highlights take place?
The scenes are performed in the ballroom and in the castle courtyard. However, we reserve the right to make changes, so please check the day’s schedule with locations on the board in the courtyard upon arrival. Or ask one of our friendly castle hosts.When can you experience Hamlet Highlights at Kronborg?
Hamlet Highlights takes place daily during the summer period from 11am to 4pm. Kronborg Castle is open for visits from 10am to 5pm.Are the Hamlet Highlights included in the admission ticket?
Yes, the performances are included in your admission to Kronborg Castle. No separate ticket is required.In which language is Hamlet Highlights performed?
All scenes are performed in contemporary English, making them accessible to international guests.How long does a performance last?
Each scene usually lasts 10–20 minutes, so you can experience several different scenes during your day at the castle.Do you need to book in advance?
No, you don’t need to book specifically for Hamlet Highlights. You just need access to the castle and can simply show up whenever you want to watch a scene.Can children participate in Hamlet Highlights?
Yes, children are welcome. However, the scenes are based on Shakespeare’s tragedy and include themes such as power, revenge, and death. Children always have free admission to Kronborg Castle.What if it rains?
Locations may change depending on the weather. Check the board in the courtyard for updates on today’s performances.Why is Hamlet associated with Kronborg?
Shakespeare set his tragedy Hamlet at Elsinore Castle, which was directly inspired by Kronborg Castle and its history and reputation in Europe. Shakespeare himself never set foot in Kronborg, but his acting troupe had performed at the castle and passed on stories to him about intrigue and drama at the Danish court.Can you experience a full Hamlet performance at Kronborg?
No, it’s a selection of a few short scenes that are performed throughout the day.