Leafy and full of charm, the squares of London are hosting the perfect night out for Shakespeare lovers.
Shakespeare in the Squares returns after a two year hiatus with a series of enchanting open air performances of The Tempest.
Directed by Sioned Jones, the classic Shakespearian saga is regarded as one of the playwright’s last works, written c.1611.
The play explores a multitude of themes including tragedy, comedy, magic, revenge, power and forgiveness. To a large extent, it is often regarded as a tragi-comedy.
The action focuses on a sorcerer, Prospero, and his daughter, Miranda, who have lived on a remote island for several years following a family dispute. The only other inhabitants are a slave, Caliban, and an impish spirit, Ariel, who acts as a servant. The aforementioned dispute involved Prospero’s brother, Antonio, usurping an influential title that Prospero believes is rightfully his. When Antonio’s ship sails near the island, Prospero uses his magical powers to cause the titular tempest to shipwreck it.
Now all marooned on the island, Antonio and an array of other passengers are separated and subsequently tested as Prospero seeks to regain his Dukedom.
What ensues is a juicy mixture of craftiness, blossoming love, plotting, self-realisation and ultimately redemption.
Shakespeare in the Squares is now a popular fixture of the summer outdoor theatre calendar. This innovative production tours to 18 London squares from June 15th to July 8th.
The performances are tailored to each individual square, and the aim is to create a unique community celebration around the play in question.
Most city dwellers will agree there is something beguiling about London squares. Regardless of what season it is, they emit a certain charm you wish you could bottle. It is little wonder Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts’ relationship flourished in a Notting Hill one in the 1999 movie of the same name.
Summer is when they really sparkle; which makes them the perfect backdrop for a picturesque evening of Shakespeare.
Despite the varying array of light and dark subject matters The Tempest is known for, this version adopts a humorous and more genial approach overall. This is an intentional move, bearing in mind we are still re-emerging from the pandemic and bearing the metaphorical battle scars of multiple lockdowns.
The director Sioned Jones explains: “…after so much darkness, we need something lighter. It is also time to celebrate our collective humanity and revel in the opportunity of being back in the world together.”
The cast of actors blend well as a company, and it is evident that a lot of love and creativity has been poured into the production.
Each actor adds individual merit to the show, but special mention must go to William Shackleton who plays the dual roles of Antonio and Stephano. Shackleton switched from the antagonistic Antonio to the sloshed Stephano with artistic ease, and his portrayal of the drunken latter character was comically spot on.
Several actors showcase their individual musical abilities including the violin, clarinet and guitar. The use of song and dance enhance the general enjoyment, and there is just the right amount of music use overall.
The Tempest was meant to be Shakespeare in the Squares’ chosen play in summer 2020, but was cancelled for obvious reasons. When 2021 came around, it soon became evident it would not be performed that year either. The enforced two year break makes the company’s return all the more special. After all, it does not seem long ago that all things theatrical shut down in a matter of days. Sitting in a busy audience and watching a show in a public, open space suddenly became a notion theatregoers could only reminisce about and hope would eventually return.
So treat yourself to a ticket, take along a chilled bottle of rosé and enjoy a sparkling evening of sunshine and Shakespeare.
