Out-of-work actors attempt daring Shakespeare performance in Los Santos

During the global lockdown in 2020, actors Sam Crane and Mark Oosterveen, both facing unemployment, turned to online gaming as a creative outlet. They played Grand Theft Auto, a popular action-adventure video game, and stumbled upon the Vinewood Bowl, a virtual amphitheater within the game. Inspired by the environment, they conceived the idea of staging an in-game production of Shakespeare's Hamlet. This unusual project involved attracting fellow gamers to participate, resulting in a chaotic yet creative audition process where individuals showed up in bizarre avatars, some even disrupting the auditions with weapons from the game. Despite the potential for destruction, Crane and Oosterveen discovered players who brought meaningful and poignant narratives, enriching the experience. The final performance transcended the initial location, as the filmmakers explored the vast urban landscape of Los Santos, playing into the concept of a high-budget adaptation of Shakespeare. They reflected on the pervasive violence within Grand Theft Auto and drew connections to the themes of violence in Shakespeare's works, particularly Hamlet. The actors articulated their feelings of despair caused by the pandemic's stasis, ultimately infusing their interpretation with insights into Hamlet's melancholy. While the production was marked by humor, the interactions among Crane, Oosterveen, and their director, Pinny Grylls, added a layer of tenderness, as the tension among them mirrored the absurdities of their surrounding virtual environment. The entire endeavor was documented as a film, showcasing both the technological and creative possibilities brought forth by virtual gaming. The backdrop of in-game action and their adventurous spirit created a unique lens to experience a classic text. By thinking outside the traditional stage, these modern-day creators provided fresh commentary on Shakespeare’s work and revisited its relevance in contemporary society amidst a global crisis. Their project ultimately serves as a testament to the essential role of creativity and art in times of adversity. What emerged from this experiment was not only a performance piece but also a reflection on the actors' shared experiences during lockdown and the irrepressible human spirit in seeking connection through art. The surreal blend of classic literature and modern gaming culture highlights the continual reinvention of storytelling, showing that art can adapt and thrive in any medium, and particularly in unexpected circumstances like a global pandemic.