THE TEMPEST
The Denver Center Theatre Company: Oct 2 – Nov 1
Jacqueline Antaramian commands the stage with clarity and power as Prospera,the exiled queen of Milan. Her arc from summoning those who exiled her to confronting and forgiving them is delivered with consummate skill.
It is a dream come true to have this superb actor treading the boards of the Denver Center once again.
Janiah Carmile Francois is enchanting as Prospera’s daughter, Miranda. Alistair Toovey portrays Miranda’s love interest Ferdinand, with a skill that amuses as he surfs the romantic waves towards Miranda while being magically - and magnetically -shepherded by Prospera’s maternal wisdom and wand. Erika Soto is wondrous as Prospera’s mischievous spirit helper, Ariel. Moses Villarama portrays the barbaric Caliban with a ferocious desire to be free of his slavery to Prospera.
Rob Nagle is hysterical in his stage incarnation of Stephano. A close relative of that portly knight, Falstaff, his drunken enslavement of the indigenous Caliban with his bottle of wine is staggering to say the least. Bravo!
Sean Scrutchins is most memorable as Trinculo.
Timothy McCracken shines as Alonso.
Each and every one of Kevin Copenhaver’s costumes is a masterpiece! The fantasia of colors, patterns and fabrics dazzles! Copenhaver’s choice to have Caliban crowned with antlers and crab legs and Ariel with multi-colored feathers will give you a sampling of his exquisitely imaginative artistry. Illuminating the very fine scenic design done by Chika Shimizu, Charles R. MacLeod’s lighting design gives us the illusion of an angry sea that tosses the galleon at the top of the play. The sound design by Lindsay
Jones enhances the scene with the roar of crashing waves and thunder.
The singer/pianist Sarah Statler infuses the production with haunting jazz vocals and piano playing.
Even purists will have to give a tip of the hat to Chris Coleman for his unique and inventive direction.
Run to get tickets!
For tickets call 303-893-4100 or go online at denvercenter.org
