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:

31 May 2007

Pete Postlethwaite returns to the Royal Exchange's famous round stage as Prospero in Shakespeare's The Tempest. This fine actor first appeared here five years ago in Harold Pinter's The Homecoming. There is something about The Bard's work that fits this remarkable actor like a glove and he is like a homecoming king, cloak and all.

Opening with the famous calm before the storm, the cast resemble characters in a Michael Mann film complete with shades, suits, and ear pieces; all very Miami Vice. These contemporary touches including the opening music, Born Free work wonderfully as they draw parallels within the complicated narrative so that the audience can see echoes of Iraq, 9/11 and how leaders use their power to control others.

The survivors of the storm find themselves on an island, controlled by the mysterious Prospero. As the story unfolds the men realise why they are there and each and every one of them is ma...

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Latest User Review

Maeve Fagan - 2 June 2007:

A brilliant production with minimal scenery, fantastic sound and a truly great performance by Pete Postlethwaite who made Prospero very human as a father and someone I could relate to....

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