The Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C. is set to showcase a theatrical rendition of “Hamnet,” crafted by the acclaimed playwright Lolita Chakrabarti and helmed by director Erica Whyman.
The narrative of “Hamnet,” initially popularized in Maggie O’Farrell’s acclaimed novel, has garnered significant attention in recent months, especially following the triumphant release of its film adaptation directed by Chloé Zhao.
However, prior to the film’s debut, “Hamnet” existed as a stage play – and it is now making its way to D.C. for its first performance as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s U.S. premiere tour.
The Shakespeare Theatre Company is proud to host this adaptation, which has been brought to life under the skillful direction of Erica Whyman. Chakrabarti, celebrated for her adaptation of “Life of Pi,” returns to the stage with this deeply moving narrative.
This poignant tale delves into the life of William Shakespeare and portrays his family, particularly focusing on fictionalized interpretations of his wife, Agnes (often referred to as Anne) Hathaway, and the profound impact of their son’s death, Hamnet, on Shakespeare’s iconic work, “Hamlet.”
Chakrabarti emphasized to WTOP that you don’t need to be an expert in Shakespeare to appreciate “Hamnet.”
“You don’t need to know about his plays or what history claims. Just come to meet these characters who become the Shakespeares,” she remarked. “The assumptions presented in both the book and the play are merely suggestions, imagined insights into who they could have been.”
Chakrabarti acknowledged Shakespeare’s monumental influence as a cultural icon and his contributions to the English language, yet she reminded audiences that, at his core, “he was just a person.”
“If you’ve read the book or seen the film, this play offers a distinct experience. It shares the same essence of the story but with a new perspective and flavor,” Chakrabarti shared. “If you haven’t explored either, it promises to be a delightful discovery of an extraordinary tale.”
To catch this remarkable performance, “Hamnet” will be showing at Harman Hall in the Shakespeare Theatre Company from March 17 through April 12.
Check back every Thursday for a roundup of Things to do in the DC area.
Here’s a glimpse at additional events occurring around the D.C. area:
DC
Awesome Con
The excitement is back! D.C. celebrates its 13th year of Awesome Con, the local version of Comic Con, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, running from Friday through Sunday. Over 60,000 guests can enjoy an artist alley, book fair, short film festival, and appearances by notable celebrities such as George Takei, Adam Savage, Gillian Anderson, and Nathan Fillion.
Pink Tie Party
Put on your best pink attire for the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Pink Tie Party. Enjoy exquisite bites and specialty cocktails from local D.C. restaurants. This event, exclusively for those ages 21 and older, supports the festival to keep events mostly free and accessible. Tickets are priced around $275 each.
Passion Plays
Experience the Passion Plays festival at Dupont Underground, featuring fresh music-theater works that examine different facets of human passion, suffering, and redemption. This weekend, witness the production of “Passio,” conveying stories of resilience through various classical singing techniques. Following weeks will showcase “For Women Serving Time,” a poetic-opera-theater performance encompassing elements of jazz and a deep exploration of female incarceration in America.
Ireland at The Wharf
Join the St. Patrick’s Day celebration at The Wharf this Saturday during the annual “Ireland at The Wharf” event. This all-day, family-oriented gathering includes live Irish music, traditional dance performances, and plenty of Guinness. While RSVPs aren’t required, guests may opt for the “VIP Irish Experience,” which provides complimentary snacks, tastings of premium Irish whiskeys, and other exclusive benefits.
The Big Draw Festival
This weekend, the National Building Museum will host the family-friendly Big Draw Festival, offering engaging creativity sessions, workshops, and storytelling activities led by artists and educators. The event is free with registration and open to the public; however, some workshops may require preregistration.
The Roost Women-Made Wine Fest
On Sunday, The Roost Women-Made Wine Fest will present a selection of 30 wines crafted by women from across the globe. Attendees can look forward to an array of sparkling, white, rosé, and red wines, with tickets priced at approximately $52 per person, taking place at The Roost in Southeast D.C.
Maryland
SPRUNG!
This comedy festival in Silver Spring, Maryland, hosts ten performances at the Black Box Theatre, along with available classes. Presented by Improbable Comedy, the festival runs from Thursday through Sunday.
Ravel, Debussy & Saint-Saëns
At the Strathmore’s Music Center in North Bethesda, Maryland, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra will perform Ravel’s Boléro, Debussy’s Ibéria, and Saint-Saëns’ fifth piano concerto, known as “Egyptian.” Performances are scheduled for Thursday and Friday at varied ticket prices.
Community Stories Film Festival
This Friday through Sunday, the Community Stories Film Festival will showcase exceptional independent documentary films created by local filmmakers. Attendees can expect screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and engaging discussions. An “All-Access Pass” is available for around $28 but does not include access to the closing film on Sunday. All films will screen at Docs In Progress in Silver Spring, Maryland.
“Appropriate”
Beginning Wednesday and continuing through April 19, the Olney Theatre Center will present “Appropriate,” a satirical work by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins involving a family navigating their late patriarch’s deteriorating estate. The production will also provide several related events, including post-show discussions, a genealogy workshop, and a guided hike along the Underground Railroad Experience Trail by Montgomery Parks. Ticket prices for “Appropriate” vary from approximately $50 to over $115.
Virginia
Shamrock in the Park
This Saturday, Arlington, Virginia’s Crystal City will host a lively St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Guests will enjoy a live DJ, fun photo opportunities, outdoor games, a scavenger hunt, and convenient bar carts located around the Water Park. Entry to the event is free.
Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market
Shop till you drop! This Saturday, between 10 to 15 vendors will gather in Crystal City, Alexandria, Virginia, for the Del Ray Vintage & Flea Market.
Alexandria Festival of the Book
This one-day book festival will welcome celebrated authors discussing local history and a variety of topics, including the Revolutionary War, the Gilded Age, and the Jazz Age. The free event is open to the public and will be hosted at St. Paul’s in Old Town Alexandria.
Saved by the ’90s
Get ready to relive the ’90s! The State Theatre in Falls Church, Virginia, is throwing a ’90s-themed dance party this Saturday. This event is exclusively for attendees aged 21 and up, with tickets priced at $18 in advance or $21 on the day of the show.
If you have an event that you would like to see featured in WTOP’s weekly guide to things happening in the D.C. area, please let us know!
Stay updated with breaking news and daily headlines in your inbox by signing up here.
© 2026 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.
