The Tempest: Plot Synopsis
The Tempest is the last book written by Shakespeare alone. This book is set in an isolated island. It follows the story of a sorcerer, Prospero, the legitimate Duke of Milan. He uses magic and clever manipulations in his plot to re-establish his daughter, Miranda, to her rightful place. Prospero conjures up the eponymous tempest to scare his brother Antonio and King Alonso of Naples into thinking that they have been shipwrecked and stranded on the island. His manipulations reveal the lowly nature of his brother and spearheads the redemption of the king and eventually Miranda’s marriage to the king’s son, Ferdinand. This paper intends to explain ways in which I would approach the production of this play.
Theatrical Setting: Black Box Theatre
The Tempest can be best performed in a flexible theatre popularly known as a Black box theatre. These stages are often big empty boxes painted black and can be altered to suit any theme. The play focuses on the ruins that royal families experience in their struggle for power. As such, its production requires a space that can be transformed to create an ambience of a monarchy. A black box theatre makes it possible to include different features to make the play appear more real. As the stage and the seating is not fully fixed, it is possible to suit the needs of tempest in such a space. Furthermore, such a space simplifies production in universities and colleges which are the hub for Tempest productions.
Scenic Design and Multimedia Marvels
In the Tempest, Shakespeare attempts to touch on the contemporary forms of theatre. As such, the scenic design should include motion-capture technology to bring out the idea of the flying spirits mentioned in the play. Moreover, motion-capture technology is correspondent to the Jacobean spectacles. Furthermore, I would utilize colourful artificial lighting and sound design to bring out the magical ambience of the play. The colours ought to be arranged artistically shifting regularly depending on the theme of each scene. The scene would include mosquito nettings descending from the rafters to support the actor playing the character of the magical creature, Ariel, from the play. Moreover, the set would include a wooden boat and drawings of palm trees to create the atmosphere of an island.
Costume Design
Costume design in this play would follow a royal design. For Miranda, the best costume is minimalist light coloured dresses with knots on the shoulders. The skirts would be wide and round with the hemline in row cuts. Also, the costumes of Miranda should have prints to represent an expressionist hint. This style best describes the fashion sense of royalty in the contemporary world. Her hair will be tied into a neat bun with different accessories. Furthermore, her costumes should express innocence.
For King Alonso and Antonio, the costumes should be light shirts and apparel that bring out the idea of being trapped on an island. As Prospero is a magician, the best costume design would include a black cape. His clothes should also be sophisticated as he is a Duke. Ariel’s costume should be feather based to represent the idea of flying. Furthermore, as she is a magical creature, her costume should have hand-glued crystals with bits of glass.
Casting
The best actor to play Prospero is Helen Mirren. Although Prospero is male in the play, Mirren best represents his character as she is phenomenal and has played key roles perfectly. She plays the role of a wronged duke who’s striving to restore his daughter's place. Furthermore, she has starred in many movies where she depicts a controlling character effectively. Mirren has featured in many movies and her ability to portray Prospero is undeniable. On the other hand, the best character for Miranda is Felicity Jones. With her innocent demeanor, she has the ability to effectively play the role of Miranda. As she appears laid back yet intelligent, she can best portray Miranda.
Leonardo De Caprio is the best character for Antonio. He has featured in plays as a sarcastic, remote, and unrepentant character. As such, he is best suited for the character Antonio from the play. The best character for Ariel is Thomas William Hiddleston. He is best known for his cunning character in Thor. He fits Ariel's character as he is good at portraying magic and is the source of many conspiracies. Undeniably, he possesses the traits that fit the description of Ariel. He fits the image of Ariel both physically and emotionally.
Conclusion
The tempest requires an artistic production that best creates the ambience of a monarchy in ruins. Colourful theatres are the best to represent the magical aspect of the play. Furthermore, the best production aims at showcasing the multimedia marvels of the Jacobean court masques.
