The Tempest

The Tempest, Shakespeare’s tale of reckoning and redemption was Silchester Players’ choice for their autumn production having planned it originally for 2020.  Set on a remote and mysterious island, Prospero has to introduce Miranda (his daughter) to the world.  There then follows enchantment, mystery and love at every turn.   There are light moments as well as some dark undercurrents.

 The set was excellent and had been well crafted   There was great attention to detail with some action taking place in front of the curtain.    The set was expertly painted. The props were well utilised and the antique ship’s wheel used in the opening scene was particularly impressive.

A great deal of trouble had gone into ensuring each character was appropriately dressed and made up immaculately.  The vast array of excellent costumes included sailors, period military and royalty, spirits and Ariel’s ethereal and floaty, sparkly dress which deserves special praise as does Caliban’s astonishing costume.

The lighting was effective and imaginative; the combination of lighting and sound for the storm scene was particularly well executed. 

The essential characterisations of each cast member were well developed, and each character maintained their persona throughout.    Sarah Oliver gave a compelling performance and was almost unrecognisable as Stephano and there was fine work from Charley Henkey as Ariel.  Stephen Bibby as Prospero was very much at ease with the language and was clear and confident.  Alan Moorhouse as Caliban clearly relished his role and was highly charged and mesmerising.    Thanks to the talented and hardworking team, led by directors Brian and Jill Gillett and with music played and composed by Tony Oliver, the production proved a crowd pleaser with the packed hall and was an evening of pure joy.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.