Theater in NYC: The Tempest by Shakespeare at The Public Theater

Mobile Unit presents a dynamic production of The Tempest by William Shakespeare at The Public Theater from May 3 – May 19, 2019

Mobile Unit, a touring company that seeks to bring theater and culture to people, is “parking” at The Public Theater at Astor’s Place until May 19, 2019 with William Shakespeare’s The Tempest . The engaging and energetic production has already traveled to 17 diverse communities such as recreational centers, chapels, and correctional facilities. The idea that culture belongs to everyone drives the production creators’ passion and excitement.

Laurie Woolery, production director, reimagines the traditional gender roles in Shakespeare’s play and brings a feminine touch to the characters of Prospero, and others in this fluid and fun take on a theatrical classic. Myra Lucretia Taylor as Prospero softens the spell of dark magic while a rowdy bunch of anti-heroes skillfully keep the audience entertained and amused. The villains and conspirators genuinely played by Christopher Ryan Grant, Reza Salazar, and Dan Domingues are enthralled by the spell of kindness and reconciliation propagated by the spirit Ariel, who is  gracefully played by Danaya Esperanza. The talented cast gets a standing ovation for its mastery
and authenticity. Enjoy this fast-paced and fun production and celebrate the love and kindness in the company of like-minded peers.

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The Tempest was written by William Shakespeare between 1610-1611. It is considered to be one of the last plays that he wrote alone. Praising love and forgiveness while ridiculing bad instincts, the play attracted a multitude of interpretations. Some saw the play as a representation of the domination of the knowledge of nature over the dogma and evil. Others interpreted it as a  critique of colonial exploitation. And some even read the play as Shakespeare’s farewell to theater altogether.

Scholars suggest that possible sources for the storyline are found in Erasmus’s Colloquia Familiaria (1518) and in traditional Italian commedia dell’arte among many other earlier texts. While praised for its the positive power and determination, the play was also rightfully criticized for its lack of female characters with Miranda standing alone among the male inhabitants of the remote island. That makes the fresh reading of the play by the Mobile Unit’s fresh reading of the play is so timely and enlightening. However, this is not the first feminine interpretation of the character of Prospero, a wise and protective figure to his family and his people. In 2000 the Globe Theater in London staged the Tempest with Vanessa Redgrave as Prospero.

Presented by the Mobile Unit, the production moves briskly from one scene to the next with minimalistic set design by Claire Deliso and on the fly costume changes by the actors. The fluidity and rapport of the cast create a perfect rhythm for the staging. Culminating with a happy union of the lovers, the play invites everyone to forget the old grievances and unite for peace and prosperity.

 

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Date: May 3 – May 19, 2019

Venue: 425 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10003

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