The Tempest

The Tempest

The Drilling Company

Bryant Park Shakespeare

September 1, 2017

 

Photo courtesy of Bryant Park Shakespeare

Director Lukas Raphael brings The Drilling Company’s summer Shakespeare season to a stunning conclusion with his rendition of The Tempest at Bryant Park.  He states in the program notes, “While embracing the madness of our venue in Manhattan, it was important to focus the production and tell the story clearly, imaginatively, and immediately.”  He skillfully achieves this goal through collaboration with a brilliant cast and amazing composer, Natalie Smith.  Mr. Raphael hones in on the essence and power of Shakespeare’s tale, making it accessible and entertaining.

Prospero (played by Roger Rathburn), the former Duke of Milan, and his daughter, Miranda (played by Mary Linehan) have been living on a secluded island after forced exile twelve years ago.  He rules over Ariel, a spirit (played by Natalie Smith), and Caliban, an island native who formerly reigned over the island (played by Eric Paterniani).  Prospero conjures a mighty storm that causes a shipwreck.  Aboard the ship are Alonso, the King of Naples (played by Jack Sochet), and members of his courts, including his son Ferdinand (played by Bradford B. Frost).  They all become separated, and seek any advantage to obtain power.  It is Prospero’s plan for redemption through forgiveness that comes to fruition.

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

Roger Rathburn is commanding as Prospero.  He creates a strong bond with Natalie Smith’s Ariel.  Jack Sochet portrays a wide range of emotion as Alonso.  He remains in control over the men of his court, while feeling a deep loss thinking his son Ferdinand died during the storm.  Bryce Dutton (as Sebastian), Michael Bernstein (as Antonio), Zach Guttmann (as Adrian), and Robert Arcaro (as Gonzalo) concisely illustrate the struggle between loyalty and betrayal that takes place in the minds of men of power.  Their scenes provide truth to the events that caused Prospero’s exile and propel the action forward. 

The true magic of this production takes place between Mary Linehan and Bradford B. Frost.  The innocence and naiveté of Ms. Linehan’s Miranda is sincere and genuine.  Her character is strongly rooted and sure of herself in the world her father built for her.  She is also eager to experience the newness of the world beyond its borders.  Mr. Frost’s Ferdinand is bold and brave.  His tenderness toward Miranda is endearing.  Together these two actors create true and honest moments of discovery.  Their chemistry is electric.  Their skills are sharp and focused.

Eric Paterniani, who is usually cast in the comic roles in The Drilling Company productions, is mesmerizing as Caliban.  He creates this “monster” character by making strong physical and vocal choices that create mystery and intrigue.  When he conspires with Jarrod Bates (Trinculo) and Andrew Gombas (Stephano), it is pure pandemonium.

Photo courtesy of The Drilling Company

You have one more weekend to see The Drilling Company’s production of The Tempest at Bryant Park (Friday and Saturday, September 8 & 9, at 7:00 PM).  It is your last chance for FREE summer Shakespeare.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza

The Tempest

The Tempest

Donmar Warehouse

St. Ann’s Warehouse

January 21, 2017

Photo courtesy of St. Ann's Warehouse

The Donmar Warehouse production of The Tempest is magnificent!  It is touring from London and playing at St. Ann’s Warehouse in DUMBO (Downtown Brooklyn).  The space is transformed into a women’s prison.  The theme of captivity and freedom rings out as you become viscerally connected to the experience.  The concept is solid.  The direction, by Phyllida Lloyd, is focused and effective.  The all-female ensemble is strong.  Harriet Walter is commanding as Prospero.

The play starts in the lobby.  A harsh, blaring sound is heard and the waiting audience is ordered to clear a path.  The actors are marched through the crowd, shackled and guarded.  The tone is immediately set before anyone has even entered the theatre.  Seating is in the round and assigned in “blocks.”  Guards are stationed at each block entrance.  The lighting is harsh.  There is another blaring sound and the ensemble of prisoners enters.  One steps forward and introduces herself.  She tells of her crime and how she has been imprisoned for thirty of her seventy-five year sentence.  She sits and writes in her journal… and becomes Prospero, imprisoned on his island, stripped of his Dukedom, and rearing his daughter, Miranda.  His mystical powers raise a mighty tempest that brings his plan for redemption and the reclamation of his title. 

Leah Harvey & Sheila Atim
Photo courtesy of St. Anne's Warehouse

Director Phyllida Lloyd states in the program notes that, “Shakespeare plays burn brightly when performed by a single gender.  Their veins become clearer.”  How true, especially with this phenomenal ensemble, boldly led by Harriet Walter.  Jade Anouka is haunting and dutiful as Ariel.  Sophie Stanton effectively portrays Caliban as wronged and misunderstood.  Leah Harvey is charming and adventurous as Miranda.  She is perfectly paired with Sheila Atim as Ferdinand.  Karen Dunbar and Jackie Clune are a comic and mischievous duo as Trinculo and Stefano.  Carolina Valdes, Martina Laird, Shiloh Coke, and Zainab Hasan are devious and noble as Antonio, Alonso, Sebastian, and Gonzola. 

Jade Anouka & the Ensemble
Photo courtesy of St. Anne's Warehouse

The theme of forgiveness as a means of achieving spiritual freedom, even if you physically remain imprisoned is clearly illustrated by Harriet Walter in the powerful ending of the play.  St. Anne’s Warehouse is the perfect venue for the technical needs of this outstanding production.  The Tempest runs through February 19.  You must experience it for yourself!

Domenick Danza