Benedict Cumberbatch’s upcoming performance as Hamlet is the year’s hottest theatrical ticket, and one particularly coveted by the actor’s intensely ardent fanbase. Many will want to say goodnight to their sweet prince when he leaves London’s Barbican theatre, but steps are being taken to quell any potential mob at the stage door.
The theatre has emailed ticketholders, saying: “Benedict Cumberbatch won’t be able to sign autographs afterwards, and our staff can’t accept deliveries at the stage door or box office.” The Sunday Times reports that the Barbican’s numerous exits could be used to evade particularly dogged fans who refer to themselves as “Cumberbitches”. In a statement announcing the measures, the Barbican said: “We always ensure we have appropriate security for all our events at the Barbican, and Hamlet is no exception.”
Tickets sold out in minutes when they went on sale a year ago, though there will be 30 £10 tickets available for those ready to queue at the Barbican each morning. The production, co-starring Game of Thrones’ Ciarán Hinds, is directed by Lyndsey Turner, whose Chimerica and Posh were both critical hits.
Cumberbatch recently became a father – his wife, Sophie Hunter, gave birth to a son in June. Following his Hamlet, he’ll next be seen in the Johnny Depp crime thriller Black Mass, Iraq drama The Yellow Birds, and, eventually, as the lead in mega-budget Marvel blockbuster Doctor Strange.
