The Tempest

Synopsis

Prospero, Duke of Milan, his dukedom usurped by his brother Antonio, is put to sea with his daughter Miranda and some magical books smuggled in by his loyal councillor Gonzalo. The sea casts them up on an island where Prospero, exercising his magical powers, makes a home for himself and Miranda. One day a great storm, which Prospero has conjured, breaks up a passing ship and delivers to him the members of his usurping court. Treacherous brother, fellow conspirators and old friend alike come under Prospero's spell. Shakespeare's last play.

Our Review:

9 May 2002

Note: The following review dates from May 2002 and this production's original run at the Roundhouse in London.

The Roundhouse's acoustics can be deadening at the best of times so it was with some trepidation that I approached this performance - there have been too many productions of Shakespeare's tale where the words of the opening scene have been lost in the noise of the eponymous tempest. I'm happy to report then that Michael Boyd's production starts superbly. While the atmosphere crackles with anticipation, there's no howling storm to contend with from the outset.

What Boyd has done brilliantly is bring out the futility of earthly trappings against the force of nature: the King sitting on his throne cannot prevent the tempest. Later on, he's traipsing through the island, in full regalia, with attendant holding his train, almost unable to comprehend his impotence. And of course, Stephano and Trinculo are also distracted by the material symbols of power.

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Latest User Review

USER: Whatsonstage.com - 8 October 2002:

seemed to me to be too many special effects. Do you think Mike Boyd could do a show without a fly-tower?...

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