BWW Reviews: THE TEMPEST, a Theatrical Jewel at The Shakespeare Theatre of NJ

"We are such stuff as dreams are made on, and our little life is rounded with a sleep."
-Prospero

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is presenting William Shakespeare's The Tempest through June 22nd. It is the ideal production to open their 53rd Season. Magic, adventure, intrigue, and romance are just some of the captivating elements of this classic play that will appeal to a broad audience.

Directed by the theatre's Artistic Director, Bonnie Monte, The Tempest features a stellar cast, wonderful staging, and distinctive touches. This play was the first production Monte directed when she joined the theatre more than 23 years ago. With impressive directing credits, Monte is an artist who develops dramatic works to their fullest potential.

In the play's opening scene, we learn the powers of Prospero as he uses his magic to create a tempest and a shipwreck. Prospero then explains past events to his beloved daughter Miranda. Twelve years earlier, his brother seized from him the dukedom of Milan and cast him out to sea with Miranda as an infant. The two reached shore where they met Caliban, the coarse and unruly son of the witch Sycorax, the sorceress who had also imprisoned the spirit Ariel. Now, the tempest has stranded a travelling party on Prospero's island home, bringing old friends and foes together. The party includes Prospero's brother Antonio, the good counselor Gonzolo, the king of Naples Alonso, Alonso's son Ferdinand, Alonso's brother Sebastian, the drunken butler Stefano, and the jester Trinculo. While Alonso fears that his son Ferdinand is dead, the young man has survived the storm and surfaces only to fall deeply in love with Miranda.

Sherman Howard is superb in the role of Prospero, in full command of every element of his performance. He sets the pace for each scene as a devoted father, scholar, and the master of his domain.

The youthful promise of true love is perfectly portrayed by Lindsey Kyler as Miranda and Jackson Moran as Ferdinand. The chemistry is just right between the two as each of their encounters becomes more affectionate.

Erin Partin is mesmerizing in the role of Ariel, an alluring spirit who is devoted to Prospero while she waits for him to release her from captivity. The part of Caliban is mastered by Jon Barker with an unearthly presence, alternately repulsive and sympathetic. Gonzalo, wonderfully played by Richard Bourg, is the voice of reason, a real gentleman at heart. Humor abounds with the antics of Trinculo played by Patrick Toon and Sebastian played by Jeffrey M. Bender.

The single set design by Brian Clinnin works flawlessly with dramatic lighting effects by Tony Galaska. The sound design by Karen Graybash is outstanding as are the costumes by Murell Horton. Horton's flair for costuming is especially evident in Ariel's attire.

The Tempest at The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is a true gem and should not be missed by metropolitan area audiences. It is an extraordinary production of one of the final masterpieces written by William Shakespeare. For ticketing, please call (973) 408-5600 or visit their web site at http://www.shakespearenj.org.

Photo Credit: Jerry Dalia

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