First Makaton Hamlet Performance Heads to His Majesty’s Theatre
This fantastic production blends Shakespeare with lived experience and signed support.
When Teatro La Plaza brings its production of Hamlet to Aberdeen this November, it will mark a couple of firsts for His Majesty’s Theatre. The show features a cast of actors with Down syndrome and includes the venue’s first Makaton-signed performance, taking place at the Saturday matinee on 8 November. The announcement coincides with Makaton International Awareness Day, held each year on 28 August to raise awareness of the communication system.
Performed in Spanish with English subtitles, this version blends Shakespeare’s original language with personal reflections from the cast. The result is a thoughtful, occasionally playful production that reimagines the familiar story through lived experience and movement.
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Why Makaton matters on stage
The inclusion of Makaton is more than a gesture. It follows feedback from the local Down syndrome community, who identified the need for extra support. Makaton combines speech with signs and symbols to support understanding for people with communication difficulties or learning disabilities.
For this show, the signing will be embedded within the performance. It will be led by Sam Stephen, a Makaton Consultant and Ambassador Tutor based in Aberdeen. Sam also runs MakaTots, a local early years programme that uses Makaton to support communication development.
Local voices and access
Sam said, “The call for Makaton integration in theatre is part of a growing movement to embrace accessibility in creative ways. It’s encouraging to be part of something bold and committed to opening the doors of theatre to more people.”
Grace Arthur, Head of Customer Engagement at Aberdeen Performing Arts, explained that the decision to introduce Makaton came after conversations with families and support groups. “The show explores inclusion so directly. It felt like the right time.”
Aberdeen is the only Scottish venue on this three-date UK tour. The production runs from 6 to 8 November, with the Makaton-signed matinee taking place on the Saturday. Tickets are available via Aberdeen Performing Arts.
