Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead

Raleigh Little Theatre brings Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead to the Gaddy-Goodwin Teaching Theatre starting Friday, October 23, and running through November 8. It's a comedy by Tom Stoppard, and if you've never heard of it, the premise is a great place to start: Stoppard takes two minor characters from Shakespeare's Hamlet and gives them their own story. The play follows them as they search for answers and run into actors, royalty, pirates, and a world that never quite explains itself. Critics usually describe it as less about Shakespeare and more about all of us trying to figure out where we fit, and it's known for fast-paced wordplay and a surprising amount of heart.

This production is part of the theatre's 2026-2027 season, which marks the company's 90th year. The season is staged as a tribute to Stoppard, whom the theatre lost in 2025, and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead is widely considered one of his best-known works. It's recommended for ages 13 and up, and it features mild adult themes and language, theatrical haze, and flashing lights.

Behind the scenes, the play is directed by Jeri Lynn Schulke, with scenic design by Sonya Drum, costume design by Jenny Mitchell, lighting design by Darby Madewell, and stage management by Lauren Montana. The show runs about 2 hours and 30 minutes with one intermission. There's also an audio-described performance on Sunday, November 1, at 3 PM.

As for when to go, the schedule is pretty flexible: Thursday, October 29, at 7:30 PM; Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 PM; and Sundays at 3 PM. Tickets are $33 for adults and $30 for seniors, students, and military — seniors 62 and up, students through college. The Gaddy-Goodwin Teaching Theatre is at 301 Pogue St in Raleigh.