The Tempest

If someone ever said to me that a cast of youth performers, some as young as 11, could pull off a decent performance of Shakespeare's 'The Tempest', I'd have thought it to be a very ambitious and brave move for all concerned. This production highlighted the sheer determination and indeed talent CAYT has to offer as well as putting me and my sceptical thoughts well and truly into place. With a really workable set that looked brilliant and enhanced by terrific lighting and projections I knew from the outset that we were in for a treat and I wasn't disappointed.  The cast of 20 took one of Shakespeare's great plays and told the story with confidence and clarity and maturity far beyond their years. Each performer understood both their character and their role within the play, all giving confident portrayals and showing such technique in their acting abilities. I was mesmerised. The principals in particular delivered some outstanding work, delivering long speeches with such emotion and depth. I particularly enjoyed Harry Jones' performance as Prospero, a complex character yet Harry gave such clarity. Charles Vickers as mischievous Ariel, maintained this weird and wonderful character throughout and Joseph Pearce as Caliban was outstanding.  I must congratulate directors Dee Melia and Jennifer Matthews for their dedication to this youth group and all the work that they must have put into this production and for taking this play from page to stage with such a creative style. It was so apparent that the group were completely engaged and embraced the challenge and had heaps of fun doing so. In return, I loved your Production and left the theatre educated and inspired.

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