Enter the magical world of Shakespeare with SRT's production, The Tempest, in Singapore's Fort Canning Park
Our interview with actress Julie Wee on her role as Miranda made us more than eager to see Singapore Repertory Theatre’s (SRT) Shakespeare in the Park: The Tempest. One of the two plays that Shakespeare created out of pure imagination (his other works were based on real life stories), The Tempest introduced audiences to a magical realm filled with sorcery and possibilities. Here are five things you should know about this spectacular outdoor play:
Arrive Early
At 6.15pm, there was already a queue forming outside, so it’s probably wise to head there early if you want a good view of the play (as it’s free seating). Doors open an hour early (at 6.30pm) for the audience to frolic around and have a picnic before the show starts. Ladies going along on Wednesday: Look out for the hot Somersby’s hunk giving away fruity ciders! You will also receive a free picnic mat courtesy of Somersby, so you don’t have to pack one. Mats are only available for Wednesday shows.
Food and drinks
Peckish, but no munchies? Fret not, hungry folks; grab a bite from vendors IndoChine or Häagen Dazs at the park. On offer at IndoChine are exquisite dishes like Pomelo and Poached Tiger Prawn ($8), as well as hearty sarnies like croissants filled with pulled stewed beef ($8). For those craving for sweets, head to Häagen Dazs for ice cream (two sticks or cups set you back $12). Flavours include macadamia nut brittle and everyone’s favourite cookies and cream. Beers and chips will also be on sale at IndoChine if you just want to snack. Food and drinks will only be sold before the show and during intervals.
The story
Set on a remote island, The Tempest is base a story of revenge, family and, ultimately, love. The play opens with a violent storm – conjured by Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan – hitting a ship containing the King of Naples Alonso and his companions. Follow Prospero as he plots to reclaim what was lawfully his with the help of his spirit, Ariel.
Amazing stage design
It is only appropriate that Shakespeare’s most notable play boast the tallest set ever to be built in Fort Canning Park. Designed by renowned Simon Higlett, whose recent sets up include Blithe Spirit (USA and West End) and Yes, Prime Minister (Singapore and L.A.), the stage for The Tempest is an open book – built based on Prospero’s love for study and reading. While minimal props were used, the ones that appeared were spectacular. Spoiler alert: look forward to Ariel’s harpy scene, as the playful spirit transforms into a frightening monster (with the body and claws of a vulture-like bird), during her descent upon Alonso and his party. Executed down to perfection, we daresay it was one of the best set designs for any Shakespeare show we’ve seen.
Captivating actors
The man of the evening was definitely Simon Robson, who played the leading character Prospero. From his dramatic opener to his closing speech, Robson enthralled us with his emotive movements, booming voice and brilliant expressions as the exiled Duke. While Prospero served us intensity, local actor Shane Mardjuki (from Ken Kwek’s Unlucky Plaza) injected a good dose of comedic relief in his portrayal of the jester Trinculo.
Get your tickets to Shakespeare in the Park – The Tempest which runs till Sunday, 24 May 2015 at Fort Canning Park. Play starts at 7.30pm with doors opening at 6.30pm. Ticket cost $98 to $45.
This article is sponsored by Singapore Repertory Theatre.
