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LATEST LONDON NEWS

David Tennant/PH: Charles Spencer

THE READINESS IS ALL
December 23, 2008

By JOHN NATHAN

David Tennant eager to return as Hamlet after back op.

The Royal Shakespeare Company has announced that David Tennant may return to the role of Hamlet in the final week of the run at London"s Novello Theatre.

Tennant - best known as Doctor Who- was forced to withdraw from Gregory Doran's production after suffering a prolapsed disc which resulted in an operation on his back. Edward Bennett, who was playing the role of Laertes, has since been performing the title role in Shakespeare"s tragedy.

But in a statement, the RSC has said doctors are so pleased with Tennant's recovery, they are hopeful that the actor's acclaimed Hamlet will return to the London stage before the run finishes on Jan 10, 2009. It is too early to specify a date, however.

Tennant said "I am so grateful for all the terrific medical attention I have received and although it is frustrating to have to take it easy whilst all my friends and colleagues continue at the Novello Theatre every night, I am aware that I must listen to the experts and take my time."

In the meantime the RSC has offered ticket holders the option of exchanging their tickets for future RSC productions at the Novello. Patrons also have the option of offering their tickets for resale at the box office, although there is no guarantee that this will result in a refund.

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