Magical play on stage in Cincinnati
A play that mixes magic, evil plots, and romance is coming to Cincinnati.
“The Tempest” is one of William Shakespeare’s later plays, and allegedly the last one he wrote by himself.
The first scene takes place on a storm-tossed ship, then moves to an island where Prospero lives with Miranda, his daughter. Prospero is both a wizard and the rightful Duke of Milan, who was deposed by Antonio, his brother, with the help of the King of Naples, Alonso. Also on the island are Caliban, who was there first and believes the island belongs to him, and Ariel, a spirit. Prospero has enslaved both.
When Prospero understands his enemies are nearby, he causes the tempest that wrecks the ship and brings them to his island. He uses his powers to torment them, but finally everyone forgives each other, and they all leave the island. Caliban regains his kingdom and Ariel his freedom.
The play has been adapted many times for television, stage, screen, and even opera. Critical reception has changed, shifting from a view of Prospero as a genial, beneficent father to a manipulative controlling figure. The various interpretations point to the many layers found in the play. Colorful posters, which are made using poster printing, are often used to advertise events like this.
The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company opens the play with two nights of previews, April 9 and 10, and official opening night April 11, at the Otto M. Buddig Theater on Elm Street.
“The Tempest” is one of William Shakespeare’s later plays, and allegedly the last one he wrote by himself.
The first scene takes place on a storm-tossed ship, then moves to an island where Prospero lives with Miranda, his daughter. Prospero is both a wizard and the rightful Duke of Milan, who was deposed by Antonio, his brother, with the help of the King of Naples, Alonso. Also on the island are Caliban, who was there first and believes the island belongs to him, and Ariel, a spirit. Prospero has enslaved both.
When Prospero understands his enemies are nearby, he causes the tempest that wrecks the ship and brings them to his island. He uses his powers to torment them, but finally everyone forgives each other, and they all leave the island. Caliban regains his kingdom and Ariel his freedom.
The play has been adapted many times for television, stage, screen, and even opera. Critical reception has changed, shifting from a view of Prospero as a genial, beneficent father to a manipulative controlling figure. The various interpretations point to the many layers found in the play. Colorful posters, which are made using poster printing, are often used to advertise events like this.
The Cincinnati Shakespeare Company opens the play with two nights of previews, April 9 and 10, and official opening night April 11, at the Otto M. Buddig Theater on Elm Street.