The Tempest

The Tempest - Although originally labelled as a comedy, The Tempest contains both tragic and comic elements, and this production highlighted them extremely well.

The set was carefully designed, featuring a split backdrop with two hand-painted drops. All props were essential, well chosen, and effectively used. The display areas at the front of the stage intrigued the audience and were thoughtfully positioned, while the ‘sea’, visible on the open stage throughout, was used to particularly good effect.  The inclusion of original music and dance added further richness, atmosphere, and vitality to the performance. Costumes and make-up were perfectly judged throughout, with the harpy costume, featuring its double set of wings and striking mask, proving a particular triumph.

This performance was a joy to watch from beginning to end—the time simply flew by. The various groups of characters were portrayed with great skill, ensuring that each storyline unfolded clearly and effectively, while the humour was engaging and well delivered. Every member of the cast gave a strong performance, contributing to the sense of a unified ensemble working seamlessly together.  The audience was skilfully drawn into the play’s many intrigues, and the story was brought to a satisfying and accomplished conclusion.

Congratulations to everyone involved, particularly the director, Yvonne Chadwell, and the composer of the incidental music, Andrew Donovan. They clearly guided the ship through the storm and brought it safely to a smooth and memorable finale.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.