Theatre Review: Bard on the Beach - The Tempest
I’ve been enchanted.
As my second LIVE performance at Bard on the Beach, Tempest wove it’s magic with ease.
A combination of comedy, fairy tale romance, tragedy, supernatural elements and historical intrigue, Meg Roe left nothing to chance.
Every element was perfectly positioned to play its part, whether in character, prop, lighting or music.
And so, the opening scene unfolds.
A ship cast out into a tempest with a crew crying out as they cling for their lives. A ship’s rope doubled for the boat and a string quartet enriched the musical ambiance and lyricism. The lights and sounds were timed perfectly, providing for the perfect storm.
Of-course, as with any storm, surviving is key.
I suppose that’s what’s unique about the tale.
EVERYONE survives!
The storm isn’t quite as frightening as you’d think. Prospero, an exiled duke from Milan had instructed a mischievous spirit (Ariel) to put the Tempest into motion (and cause a shipwreck) in order to separate the King’s son from his crew.
Prospero’s intent is solely to unite his daughter Miranda with the Prince (Ferdinand), and as expected, they are quickly smitten.
As their love story unfolds, another story revolves around the members of the marooned party. A conspiracy is about to take place as the royal councillor plots to kill the King so that another may become the new King.
Ariel, committed to Prospero’s bidding continues to weave an intricate spell amongst the characters, eventually releasing them from it and the slaying is averted.
Quite the tale of intrigue and magic I must say.
In the end, Miranda and Ferdinand are united and a culmination colours, design, movement and lighting are witnessed during their wedding scene.
It was actually quite breathtaking.
And so the curtain finally closes on this enchanting tale…. a masterful; both in the cast’s dedication to their crafts and Christine Reimer’s costumes – which were beautiful.
So, if you haven’t seen it yet, book it!
I would go again if the opportunity strikes…
Bard on the Beach: The Tempest June 12 to September 18, 2014
by Jessica Hugh
1 Notes/ Hide
- darkanachronism liked this
- bcbuzz posted this