Past Reviews

Regional Reviews: Philadelphia

The Tempest
Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival
Review by Rebecca Rendell


Robert Cuccioli and Sarah Gliko
Photo by Lee A. Butz
There is a whole world of magic in Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival's spellbinding production of William Shakespeare's The Tempest. The synergy of Robert Cuccioli's commanding presence and Sarah Gliko's uncanny poise is mesmerizing. Steve TenEyck's simple set design is fascinating and Eric T. Haugen's otherworldly lighting transports the audience to a world full of strange spirits. Director Jason King Jones captures the essence of the Bard's greatest romance while keeping a brisk pace and easy humor that make the work feel surprisingly modern. Once again, Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival delivers a production that will delight Shakespeare aficionados as much as those just getting to know Master Will.

For those newer Shakespeare fans, The Tempest tells the story of Prospero, the former Duke of Milan, who is exiled to a remote island with his daughter Miranda. Using his magical powers and the assistance of the spirit Ariel, Prospero conjures a storm that brings his treacherous brother Antonio, the King of Naples, and other noblemen to the island. Through various magical interventions, he seeks to exact revenge on his enemies while also setting the stage for his triumphant return to Milan. The play explores themes of betrayal, power, and the possibility of redemption.

Robert Cuccioli approaches the role of Prospero with a traditional attitude and aspect, but his unparalleled gravitas is simply spectacular. It is legitimately frightening when Cuccioli speaks of using his magic to open up graves and wake their sleepers. Sarah Gliko puts a more unusual spin on Prospero's favorite servant Ariel, imbibing the airy spirit with real dignity and desperation. That decision and Gliko's flawless execution immediately elevate the entire production. To contrast that seriousness, Billie Wyatt and John Austin play the young lovers Miranda and Ferdinand with a playfulness that borders on silly. There is real joy in the connection they have with each other and the audience.

Jones and his creative team effectively create a wondrous and dreamlike space for the talented ensemble. The set design by Steve TenEyck is evocative without being overwrought. TenEyck set and Eric T. Haugen's dramatic lighting set the mood for a mystical adventure. Beautifully imagined and richly detailed, the costume designs by Lisa Zinni are top notch.

The Tempest is one of Shakespeare's greatest plays and PSF's production brings out all the best elements of this important and beloved work. Under Jones' direction the talented ensemble reveal both the ample humor and profound mystery of this classic work. I am anxious to see that same ensemble will performing Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, which will be running in repertory with this most excellent Tempest.

The Tempest runs through August 6, 2023, at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts, Main Stage, DeSales University, 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley PA. For tickets and information, please visit pashakespeare.org, call 610-282-WILL [9455], or visit the PSF box office at the Labuda Center for the Performing Arts.

Cast:
Robert Cuccioli: Prospero
John Austin: Ferdinand
Sarah Gliko: Ariel
Gregory Isaac: Antonio
David Pica: Sebastian
Sue Jin Song: Gonzala
Billie Wyatt: Miranda
Akeem Davis: Trinculo
Jim Helsinger: Stephano
Eric Hissom: Alonso
Gina Lamparella: Juno
Christopher Patrick Mullen: Caliban
Megan Castellane: Cera
Johnny Drumgoole: Master
Iyanu Joshuasville: Boatswain & Adrian
Nicole Lawrie: Francisca
Gabrielle Moseley: Iris

Creative:
Director: Jason King Jones
Projections: CJ Barnwell
Sound: David M. Greenberg
Lighting: Eric T. Haugen
Choreography: Gina Lamparella
Original Compositions: Johnny Drumgoole
Set Design: Steve TenEyck
Costumes: Lisa Zinni
Stage Manager: Leslie Ann Boyden
Associate Stage Manager: Emma D. Emde
Associate Scenic Designer Rodrigo Hernandez Martinez
Intimacy Director: Eli Lynn