Spectacle of theatre, performance, and law

Legal advocates in training from the University of Auckland will join Shakespearean actors from the Pop-up Globe to debate the 400 year-old case behind Hamlet – to be sane or not be sane?

Following on from a successful event in 2018 which re-examined the legal issues in The Merchant of Venice, the annual Shakespeare Moot returns.

For one evening next week, the legal question underlying the most famous play in the history of theatre will be debated. Is Hamlet guilty of murdering Polonius, or not guilty by reason of insanity?

Incorporating New Zealand law, but leaving formal courtrooms aside, actors from the Pop-up Globe’s Nottingham’s Company will perform a scene from Hamlet, followed by legal debate from members of the University of Auckland Mooting Society.

Utilising the spectacle of theatre, and placing Hamlet in a contemporary legal setting, students will argue whether or not he is criminally responsible for murder.

Featuring law, but not as you’ve ever seen it, the second Shakespeare Moot, established by law firm Anthony Harper, will be presided over by former Court of Appeal Justice Rhys Harrison.

The event will be fast paced and unpredictable with few of the formalities of court. Audience interaction is encouraged.

The Anthony Harper, Pop-up Globe Moot
6.30-7.30pm
Tuesday 26 March 2019
Fisher & Paykel Auditorium, Owen G Glenn Building, University of Auckland, 12 Grafton Road.
Free. Please RSVP to: lawstudentengagement@auckland.ac.nz to secure a seat.