One striking and recurring feature of each Stage2 show that I see is that each consecutive one I see, sets the bar a little higher. For Stage2's 'The Tempest' 2013, I think we'll need a ladder for this bar's new and dizzying height! This spectacle took me on a, maybe no longer strictly magical (with the smoke and mirrors concept) but nonetheless enchanting journey. Immediately upon seeing the set the audience saw that they were in for a treat. This could never have prepared us though for the wonders that were the costumes. The line between RSC hired costumes and Stage2's own hand-made costumes was indistinguishable, with notables including everything from Caliban's hulking structure of rubbish and charms to my personal favourite, Trinculo's jester outfit. Other remarkables included a stunning harpy head and wings, Ariel's gang (all bedecked in complimentary and eye-catching garments in the colour of the sea). I also thought the blacks worn by Antonia and Sebastian clearly represented their characters, intentions and relationship, contrasting sharply with the rest of the stage and highlighting the villains. This pairing though is just an example of the real care, attention to detail and love that went into the choice and design of every single costume made the play look truly beautiful. Credit is most definitely due to both Director Liz Light and costume assistant, Sarah Kemp, along with every other member who worked on these fabulous costumes!
Another key feature of the show was the amazing use of live sound. The combination of tribal drumming and banjo-playing along with highly polished singing added an incredible extra dimension. It is not often that with a play that has acting of the standard shown here, that you also see an entire cast not only confidently singing their hearts out, but in intricate cannons and inter-weaving melodies that were, quite literally, 'music to my ears'. I did not see a single person hesitate or move on to a wrong verse, and every note was in tune and harmonious. It was a real pleasure to listen to!
It's a testament to the quantity of extra interest in the show that I have only now come onto the acting itself, what we were there to see after all! It really was a joy to watch. Comedy from George Hannigan, Jacoba Williams, Rowan Turner-Powell and Matt Childs, as Trinculo, Stephana, Gonzalo and Adrian, had me in stitches. Their comedic timing and teamwork was the source of utmost hilarity and had me belly-laughing on multiple occasions. Many other characters also revealed the nuances of Shakespeare's language to give elements of humour elsewhere (exemplifying the cast's perfect understanding of the language!), but this group in particular caused an uproar! Accompanying Stephana and Trinculo, came the lumbering figure of Sam Hotchin, perfectly cast as Caliban. This performance was truly fantastic and would have easily been at home in the Globe itself. He revealed every facet of despair and outrageousness that the character deserves; a fantastic performance! Mirroring this creature with an almost opposite character, but played with equal skill and finesse came Chloe Jones, portraying Prospero. This is one of the most daunting undertakings possible throughout Shakespeare, but it was tackled head on and turned into one of the single greatest performances I have ever seen; certainly my favourite Prospero. Coming to assist her every beck and call was a synchronised and perfectly polished team consisting of Ariel and her gang (Ronni Mevorach, Laura Dowsett, Luca Hoffman, Aiden Richards, Alex Earle, Mark James, Priya Edwards and Rosie Nisbet). This group was backed up by an ensemble of minors. This crew brought fantastic and daring physical theatre into the fray, with unparalleled dynamism and energy that seemed to invigorate the whole show! Bringing the elements of deceit and treachery though, were the characters you love to hate; Sebastian and Antonia (Jonni Dowsett and Bryony Lovell) This duo worked together sublimely and wove their evil schemes throughout. Journeying with them, came King Alonso, whose regal power conflicting with the wrecking loss of his son made it a difficult part to play, but one taken on with aplomb by Andrew Brown giving the audience a touching performance. Memorable cameos arrived in the form of the goddesses (Sarah Kemp, Helen Carter and Ella Otemewo) bringing serene grace and calm to the storm, and boatswain Ethan Tarr, comanding the mariners added further backing and interest to the story. Finally, the perfect couple of Gabriel Hudson and Sarah Middlemiss as Ferdinand and Miranda, showed a beautiful portrayal of the famous love story. This couple gave a wondrous performance that had the audience melting in front of them!
This whole show however, whilst relying on a strong cast, would have been impossible without the massive chorus. They truly brought the isle to life, lending their numbers to massive group scenes that were a marvel to watch.
Furthermore the fantastic lighting and sound effects created the perfect ambience and setting and the hard work of the technical team was evident and appreciated throughout.
This was easily my favourite Stage2 show that I have seen, and thoroughly deserves any and all praise afforded to it. A hearty congratulations to all involved!
-George Bandy age 16
Thank you for such a wonderful show; I can't wait to see it again!
No comments:
Post a Comment