The Tempest
Guizhou University
This was the most visually beautiful – the best designed – of any of the
productions. The impression is somewhere between traditional Chinese and
Japanese Noh style. Prospero and Miranda are revealed in gorgeous traditional
robes, standing on two low platforms. Three banners hang down stage right.
Prospero’s staff is very evocative (knobbly). The acting is very decent and well
directed. Ferdinand’s costume is yet more beautiful than the other two (a green
dragon kind of design). The English diction is a bit wobbly, but it is intelligently
spoken and acted, with a feeling for nuance, and some variety of tone and pacing.
The flute element of the music is very Noh. Prospero descends from his platform
to answer Ferdinand’s aggression. This is nicely blocked. The sound-level of the
voices is right. The actors act to each-other (rather than past each-other), which
allows the feeling and interpersonal chemistry to emerge. Ferdinand enters
bearing bamboo instead of logs, which fits with the setting. The music savors of
Chinese opera and is very evocative. At the end of this scene (marking the end of
Ferdinand’s “re-education” in temperance) Prospero re-enters in a white gown.
The lighting changes to red for his “If I have too austerely punished you”. A nice
mood change suggesting what might have happened if Ferdinand had not played
ball. Miranda hangs from Prospero’s arm, which allows her to travel some
metres to join Ferdinand when Prospero gives her to him in betrothal. This is
good blocking. It is elegant and it makes the point. The masque of Ceres is
truncated but brilliantly evoked in what was deservedly the most memorable
moment of the festival: images (as of spirits) are projected onto the hanging
banners. The break-up of the masque is again very well judged. There is mauve
lighting. Prospero moves back onto his platform for “our revels now are ended”.
A drone instrument plays in the background. The piece ends with a clap of
thunder. One final note: the excerpt is well chosen and constructed. A specific
theme (temperance) and group (Ferdinand, Miranda, Prospero) is chosen and
followed throughout the play from start to finish.
By Prof. John Gillies