This edition presents the first reproduction of Ngaio Marsh's 1943 production typescript of Shakespeare's Hamlet. The book explores Marsh's innovative modern-dress staging of the play, which was a success with wartime audiences, featuring specially commissioned music by Douglas Lilburn. It includes the previously unpublished music and archival photographs, offering insights into Marsh's directorial approach and the theatrical context of New Zealand during World War II. The work aims to deepen the understanding of Marsh's role as a Shakespearean director and producer.

This edition is positioned as a valuable resource for understanding Ngaio Marsh's significant contributions to Shakespearean theatre and New Zealand's cultural history. The inclusion of the production typescript, Lilburn's music, and archival materials provides a comprehensive look at a notable wartime theatrical event. The introductory essays by Polly and Robert Hoskins contextualize the production and its creative elements, offering fresh perspectives for scholars and enthusiasts alike. It serves as a perfect starting point for those interested in Marsh's directorial work and the broader landscape of early 20th-century New Zealand theatre.