Not So Tempting - Live Theatrical Performance review

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Before watching The Tempest, a play written by William Shakespeare, I decided to read the book to familiarize myself with the plot and its characters. The old English style of writing was difficult to understand at times, but I was able to grasp that the book was about love and forgiveness.

Every year the National Drama Company produces and directs a play found in the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate Literature syllabus and this year’s adaption of The Tempest was directed by local directors Esther Hamer and Keron Bruce. Clinton Duncan, an actor in the play, did the cast’s make-up.

Walking into the National Culture Centre, I was shocked by the lack of attendance for the legendary romance and tragicomedy play. I could only assume this was due to the lack of advertisement on the drama company’s part. I do not recall seeing or hearing any advertisements about the play, and only found out about it when a friend sent me a flyer on a social media application.

On stage were two huge props painted in green and brown, made from wood and cardboards which represented a tree and a tree house. Throughout the play, three background actors pulled the tree house (which was used by the cast) to different sections of the stage during every scene.

 The play, which started 20 minutes late, began with a video of the sailors struggling to keep their boat afloat the turbulent sea.

I was pleasantly surprised by Mark Luke-Edwards’ performance as Prospero. I have seen Edwards showcase his talent in many comedy plays throughout the years so I was thrilled to see him in a dramatic role. His fluent delivery of the old English language made it easy for me to follow the character’s journey from a man bent on seeking revenge by using magic to disrupt the sea (The Tempest) to a man willing to forgive. Lorraine Baptiste, Akbar Singh and Onix Duncan, who portrayed Ariel, Trinculo and Caliban respectively, had me laughing with their comedic timings.

The costumes, designed and made by Esther and Jonathan Hamer, and Le Tisha Da Silva, though looked to be from the 17^th century era, were not completely secured. Trinculo’s costume became undone during a scene, revealing the microphone. Some actors also decided against removing their personal jewelleries and this did not fit in with the story. As the play went on, I was entertained by a pianist and a vocalist who delivered the live music. The lighting was put to great use during the last scene of the play when Prospero spoke to the audience about forgiveness.

When the supporting cast delivered their lines to the audience, I began to feel bored. I assume the same can be said for the rest of the already sparse audience since after the 20 minutes intermission, majority of them had left. I would recommend persons desirous of seeing this play to read the book or watch one the films in advance. This was a good first night’s performance.

National Culture Centre

13^th April, 2018

Done by: Sheneca Castello