The Tempest Opens September 24

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:51:21 PST

“The Tempest,” Clackamas Repertory Theatre’s final production of its sixth season opens Friday, September 24. It is directed by Artistic Director David Smith-English and features popular Portland area actor Tobias Andersen in the central role of Prospero.

The entire Osterman Theatre interior will be transformed into Prospero’s magic island through the use of projections, original Moroccan-inspired songs, and organic set design, which will surround the audience drawing them in to this “brave new world.”

Also featured are CRT favorites Jayson Shanafelt, Robert Alsman, and Jayne Stevens as Caliban, Ariel and Miranda. Recent Drammy-award winner Dennis Kelly is Ferdinand.

The Tempest was among Shakespeare’s later plays. The story follows Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, who was deposed by his brother Antonio and found refuge on a remote island. He spends 12 years in exile, cultivating his magical arts and establishing dominion over the inhabitants of the island. Through his new powers he raises a tempest that brings a ship bearing Antonio and the king of Naples to the island. Now his old enemies are within his grasp, but he must choose what form his vengeance will take. Ultimately, however, only one power remains transcendent over all others when the play has run its course: love, with its capacity for tolerance, forgiveness and reconciliation.

The show previews September 23, opens Friday, September 24, and runs Thursdays-Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. through October 10. Retired CCC English instructor Jan Anderson will deliver a pre-show lecture, Saturday evenings at 6:45 p.m. in the theater.

Preview tickets are $10-$15; and regular tickets are $12-$22. For information or to purchase tickets, go to www.clackamasrep.org or 503-594-6047.