Sept. 17, 1963 - Richard Burton (left), last seen on a New York stage as King Arthur in “Camelot,” will return to Broadway as Hamlet under the direction of John Gielgud (right). The engagement, limited to 12 weeks, will open March 19. The theater has not been designated. The first performance will be a benefit to aid the Congress of Racial Equality. According to Alexander H. Cohen, sponsor of the attraction, Mr. Gielgud, now in London acting in “The Ides of March,” believes that perfection in the role of Hamlet is impossible and that playing the part is equivalent to a permanent rehearsal. Consequently, the play will be performed in rehearsal clothes in the manner of a run-through, which is comparable to a polished rehearsal. Mr. Burton previously played Hamlet with London’s Old Vic repertory company. While he was with the troupe during the 1953-54 season, he was seen in other Shakespearean roles. His local appearance will coincide with next year’s celebration of the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s birth.
