A shipwreck in stormy seas, a misshapen monster, magical sprites, a powerful sorcerer: these are just a few of the things audiences can expect from Ouachita’s upcoming production of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.”
“The Tempest” tells the story of the sorcerer Prospero and his daughter, Miranda — exiles on a desert island — as they plot revenge against the culprits who stole Prospero’s dukedom. Throw in Ariel, the magical sprite who serves the former duke, and a hideous beast called Caliban and you have all the makings for this beloved masterpiece.
But do not be fooled; the play, directed by Joe Graves, will be full of surprises even for those who are familiar with the work, beginning with the setting, which is far from Elizabethan.
“Students can expect something completely different than they’ve seen before,” said Abby Adams, a senior musical theatre major. “It’s very whimsical and the spectacle will be amazing.”
The production incorporates a highly unusual set, which has been likened to a “jungle gym” for the fairies, as well as modern music, active blocking and acrobatics.
“Only a truly original artist [such as Graves] would think to incorporate two Pussycat Dolls songs in the middle of Shakespeare’s last play,” said Heather Baker, a sophomore musical theatre major.
“The cast is comprised of OBU students, mostly theatre majors, a handful of students from China, and Joe, our director, who is also playing the role of Prospero,” said senior theatre major Alison Kelly, who will play the fairy spirit Ariel in the upcoming production.
In addition, the show is double cast, so at least two performers must play each part. This presents quite a challenge for the actors who, though they were selected to be in the production ensemble in August, did not learn what roles they would be playing until September, when Graves returned from China. According to the students, this challenge will just add to the originality and creativity of the production.
“The hardest part, from my perspective, is the physicality. My role incorporates a lot of slap-stick comedy and climbing up and down ropes, ladders and poles,” said Adams, comparing her role as Stephano to that of Moe in “The Three Stooges.”
Despite these demands, the actors are excited about the show.
“I wouldn’t change a thing. Without a doubt this is one of my favorite roles I have ever played,” Kelly said.
So students, to see a performance that is “enticing and magical,” come check out this creative interpretation of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.” The play will run November 2-6 at 7:30 p.m. in Verser Theater. An additional matinee will be shown on Nov. 4 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $6.
