The Selected Performance
Last week, I enjoyed attending a production of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” performed at the local community theater. This play, believed to be one of the last that Shakespeare wrote alone, deals with themes of magic, betrayal, love, and forgiveness. It tells the story of Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, who, with his daughter Miranda, has been stranded on an island for 12 years after being usurped by his brother, Antonio.
The performance I selected was a modern interpretation of “The Tempest,” directed by Maria Castleton, which was staged in an intimate theater setting that encouraged a close connection between the audience and the actors (Ellinas, 2020).
The Staging, Lighting, Costumes, and Characters of the Performance
The staging of this production was minimalistic, with essential props like Prospero’s books and staff, a simple ship structure to represent the vessel caught in the tempest, and sand scattered across the stage to evoke the island’s shore. The simplicity of the set forced the audience to focus on the actors’ performances and the language of the play.
In this rendition, lighting was critical in establishing the play’s magical and ethereal atmosphere. The strategic use of blue and green lighting created an underwater effect during Ariel’s scenes, while warm amber tones accompanied the more tender moments between characters.
The costumes were a mixture of contemporary and traditional pieces. Prospero wore a tattered robe that hinted at his years of isolation, while Miranda wore an innocent white dress, symbolizing her purity and naivety. The spirit Ariel wore flowing, iridescent fabrics that shimmered under the stage lights, adding to the character’s otherworldly presence.
Characters were portrayed with a fresh take on their traditional roles. Prospero, played by James Harrington, was less the domineering sorcerer and more a weary father figure longing for reconciliation. Ariel, depicted by Lucia Moreno, was a sprightly spirit and conveyed a subtle sense of yearning for freedom.
Type of Mood and Tone Created by the Performance
The performance’s mood was a delicate balance between the darker elements of betrayal and revenge and the lighter tones of comedy and romance. This was achieved through the contrast between Prospero’s solemn, contemplative monologues and the comedic interludes provided by characters like the jester Trinculo and the drunken butler Stephano.
One quote that encapsulates the production’s tone comes from Prospero himself, who reflects on the nature of his art:
“We are such stuff
As dreams are made, and our little life
Is rounded with a sleep.” (Act 4, Scene 1)
Parts of the Play That Are Easier to Understand Through Performance
Through performance, the complexities of Shakespeare’s language became clearer. The physical comedy between Trinculo, Stephano, and Caliban was much more evident, as the actors’ slapstick humor and timing brought the text to life. The emotional gravity of Prospero’s forgiveness toward his brother was another moment that gained depth through Harrington’s heartfelt delivery.
Details that stood out included the physical manifestation of the tempest, with actors swaying and the sound effects of howling winds creating a visceral opening scene. Ariel’s acrobatics and ethereal movements underscored the character’s supernatural qualities, which might be less apparent when reading the text.
Personal Feelings About This Performance
I found this production of “The Tempest” enchanting and thought-provoking. The director’s choice to blend modern and traditional elements helped to make the play accessible without losing the richness of Shakespeare’s poetic language. The actors’ performances brought nuance to their characters, allowing for a deeper emotional investment in their fates.
The experience of viewing “The Tempest” live reaffirmed the idea that plays are designed for performance. The interaction of actors, staging, costumes, and lighting created a multi-sensory experience that reading alone cannot replicate. It highlighted the enduring power of Shakespeare’s work to communicate universal themes and emotions, making it as relevant today as it was in the 17th century.
Reference
Ellinas, G. (2020). William Shakespeare’s The Tempest. Candlewick Press (MA).