More Information About The Tempest

Description

Magic collides with humanity. A father must reunite his family. A world in need of redemption. This thoroughly romantic version of Shakespeare's bravest and most beautiful play comes to the Bruns Amphitheater.

This production was directed by the helmer of Cal Shakespeare's acclaimed productions of Arms and the Man and The Taming of the Shrew.

As a ship founders in a violent storm at sea, the boatswain and master attempt to guide the vessel away from the rocks and towards a safe landing on a nearby island. When their efforts fail, the crew and passengers abandon ship.

On the island, Miranda fears that her father Prospero, a magician, has used his powers to raise the fearful tempest. He assures her than no harm will come to any creature on board the ship.
Twelve years prior, Prospero was the Duke of Milan. Because of his scholarly nature, he entrusted the management of state affairs to his brother Antonio. Soon afterwards, Antonio conspired with the King of Naples to usurp the crown from Prospero.

Since the people loved Prospero, Antonio didn't kill him, but rather placed him and the three-year-old Miranda on a decrepit ship. In an act of charity, Gonzalo, a loyal counselor, provided them with fresh water as well as Prospero's favorite books and personal items.

Prospero and Miranda visit Caliban, an island-dweller whom Prospero has made their slave. When Prospero had attempted to educate Caliban, Caliban tried to rape Miranda. She taught him how to speak, but he claims that the only value was learning how to curse. He complies with Prospero's orders only because he fears Prospero's art, or magic.

The spirit Ariel leads Ferdinand, the King's son, into the sight of Miranda. She notes that he is a fine specimen. Prospero, as his soul foretold him, sees that Ferdinand and Miranda have fallen in love. Prospero realizes that he must create an obstacle to their love, lest Ferdinand gain her regard too easily, for Ferdinand prizes it lightly. Prospero sets about giving him laborious tasks.

Antonio and Sebastian (the King's brother) decide to kill the King, yet Prospero anticipates their plan. Ariel foils their insurrection by awakening the King.

Caliban mistakenly views the King's drunken servant Stephano as a god and quickly enlists him in a plot to kill Prospero. Ariel declares the King, Antonio, and Sebastian unworthy of the gift of life. Ariel recounts how they took the crown from Prospero and left him to face the elements. Prospero exults that his enemies are now in his power.

Prospero gives Miranda to Ferdinand and then reveals himself to the King of Naples and the others. He forgives his brother Antonio. When the King of Naples laments the loss of his son, Prospero reports the loss of his daughter. Naples grieves that the young people should have been the King and Queen of Naples, upon which Prospero reveals the young couple playing chess. Caliban sees that he was a fool to think of Stephano as a god. Prospero accepts Caliban for who he is and concludes by saying that all his charms are overthrown and upon his return to Milan he is ready for his soul to leave this world.

About the Ticket Supplier: California Shakespeare Theater

The California Shakespeare Theater is committed to being a leading community citizen by nourishing the imaginations of audiences, artists and learners of all ages. We are dedicated to creating boldly imagined and deeply entertaining interpretations of Shakespeare's plays, fresh rediscoveries of important works of World Theater, and new works inspired by classic literature. Through our Artistic Learning programs, we are devoted to providing meaningful and accessible educational opportunities to a diversity of learners throughout the Greater Bay Area.