Presented by The Handlebards
Reviewed 4 March 2020
The Handlebards are a UK based touring theatre company. Their mode of transport around Britain accounts for their name as they carry the simple sets, props and costumes on their bikes as they cycle from venue to venue, presenting a fresh, environmentally sustainable take on Shakespeare.
Here in Adelaide they gave us a wonderfully funny, all female production of The Tempestwith Roisin Brehony as Caliban, Lucy Green as Prospero, Tika Mu’tamir as Ariel and Katie Sherrard playing Miranda. The actors played multiple other roles, with some very amusing costume changes and they even recruited audience members on to the stage when extra bodies were needed.
As I was in the front row I was singled out as Sycorax, a vicious and powerful witch, the mother of Caliban and was asked where I was born. Prospero, Lucy Green, gave a powerful performance full of invective as she excoriated Sycorax with the other actors joining in to condemn her/me.
The simple set, on a very small stage, resembled a Punch and Judy booth such as I remember from summer holidays on the beach in UK, many years ago. The roll up window allowed for cutouts of the ship in a storm – and the storm clouds and lightening – which were cleverly used, as were sound effects. The actors also popped up and spoke or gave us with exaggerated facial expressions which contributed to the action.
With a simple set and few props it was the brilliant performances of all four actors which made the show such a success. Although it was clearly ‘played for laughs’ with amusing asides and up to date references, the wonderful Shakespearean language of the play was beautifully delivered.
This very clever and hugely funny performance is highly recommended.
Reviewed by Jan Kershaw
Rating out of 5: 5 Loved it!
Venue: The Bally at Gluttony
in Rymill Park
Season: 5-15 March at 5.20pm
Duration: 70 mins
Tickets: $27 Conc $22
Bookings: https://adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/the-handlebards-the-tempest-af2020
More News
