|
| The Tempest is at the Abbey Theatre until February 3 |
IT'S hard to imagine that the Company of Ten could recapture some of the magic of Shakespeare's legendary isle in the confines of the Abbey Theatre Studio.
Yet by the use of a smoke machine, adaptable boards and a hidey hole for Caliban, they have succeeded in their current production of The Tempest which has an extended run until February 3.
That such a blank canvas as the Studio could also convince as the deck of a sinking ship as well as a backcloth for the courtship of Ferdinand and Miranda is nothing short of amazing.
It is in no small measure because of the score specially composed by the very talented David Green and a haunting backcloth to the production. The former St Albans School pupil is definitely one to watch.
Director David Stone's production of The Tempest, arguably Shakespeare's most magical play, is very seductive. He has a strong cast - including himself as he has had to stand in because of illness - but is also clearly passionate about the play and particularly its magical elements.
Hence he takes the unusual step of having two Ariels in the production which is not as far-fetched as it might seem when you consider Ariel is a spirit and not of woman-born. It certainly enables the Company of Ten to use two of its most talented actresses, Fiona Lester and Claire Millins, who perfectly complement each other.
Terry Prince gives a powerful performance as Prospero whose task it is to exact vengeance on his brother Antonio - a lovely snarling performance from Russell Vincent - and Alonso, King of Naples.
As the young lovers Ferdinand and Miranda, Dug Williams and Abi Wilson are a revelation. So often the most insipid parts in The Tempest, the youngsters imbue the roles with passion and the production is the better for it.
Will Franklin is a believable Caliban, at his best in the scenes with the jester Trinculo and drunken butler Stephano, played by George Edkins and Roy Bookham respectively.
This is a lively and enjoyable production which is a credit to all involved. Tickets and further information can be obtained from the box office on 01727 857861.
MADELEINE BURTON
© Herts Advertiser 2007. Reproduced by permission