The Wykehamist
Finally, the efforts of the set-design team, under the watchful eye of JC— Mr Cunio, that is— created a true masterpiece of a location for this production to unfurl. The use of canvases and sheets to section off parts of the stage segmented the different plots perfectly, whilst also allowing the final scene where the actors eventually reassembled from different points on stage to feel that much more realistic. The raised platforms reserved for Prospera and the Ariels perfectly represented the power imbalance between them and the rest of the islanders, and allowed her to maintain vigilant control over her domain. One must also mention the ghostly light illuminating the stage at all times, a focal point throughout the play and a fitting end to Prospera’ s final lines on stage; the play ends with her pinching out of the light, draping the magical realm in a blackout.
KF has handled his first Shakespeare production at the College incredibly. He attributes the fun of the experience to the cast, more than thirty-strong; although many initially felt daunted by the weight that comes with any Shakespeare production, they all embraced the challenge and contributed enthusiastically to enhancing the production’ s unique conceit. It takes a certain magic to make Shakespeare work as well as they did, and no amount of imagination or creativity can make up for ensemble spirit.
Congratulations again to the cast and crew of The Tempest; I eagerly await the announcement of the next whole school play.
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