FRINGE FESTIVAL : STAGE REVIEWS : BARE MINIMUM ENOUGH FOR ‘HAMLET’

Inspired by similar experiments by the Royal Shakespeare Company, Robert Ellenstein’s staging of “Hamlet” uses only six actors--four men, two women. They carry no props; one rectangular box is the set. Though the colors and cuts of the clothes make subtle suggestions about the characters, the styles are modern and casual.

This isn’t a concert presentation; the blocking is carefully composed. But nothing is supposed to distract from the language. Fortunately, the cast--led by David Ellenstein as Hamlet, with Patricia Huston as Gertrude and Richardson Morse as Claudius/Ghost/Player/King--speaks that language fluently. The words are heard, the lines make sense, the voices make music.

Actually, there are a couple of distractions. It’s fun to watch the wheels turn as Shannon Presby switches between Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (as well as Laertes), or as Susan Angelo moves between girlish Ophelia and a stouthearted Horatio. It’s puzzling to ponder why Ellenstein chose to eliminate Fortinbras, especially when Jim Freiburger (formerly Polonius) remains on the sidelines during Fortinbras’ big scene at the end.

Along with Fortinbras and other representatives of the larger population, most of the social or political ramifications of the text are given short shrift--a loss that becomes more apparent as the evening goes on. Still, the psychological and philosophical “Hamlet” that remains is in fine form.

Performances are at the Megaw Theater, 17601 Saticoy St., Northridge, Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 5 p.m. Tickets: $10; (818) 881-8166.