If seeing Tom Hanks and Hamish Linklater in Henry IV awakened a desire to see more of Shakespeare’s work, then a drive or train ride to San Diego might be just what you are looking for. In the Old Globe’s production of The Tempest, Kate Burton takes on the role of Prospera. Or for those who think something is wrong here, the role is usually called Prospero and played by a man. The Tempest just opened over the weekend and continues until July 22nd.
Kate Burton, the daughter of Richard Burton, takes on a role her father never played. Prospera has been removed from power by her brother and relegated to a deserted island with only her daughter Miranda, the locals and some reading material. She wants to exact revenge on her enemies, but has to choose between her desire for revenge and the happiness of her daughter. (Richard Burton, for the record, did play Ferdinand in 1951 and the role of Caliban in 1953-1954 on stage.) Manoel Felciano, so memorable in the John Doyle production of Sweeney Todd, plays Caliban, Prospera’s slave, here. Nora Carroll plays Miranda. The production is directed by Joe Dowling.
The Lowell Davies Theatre is an outdoor venue, so dressing appropriately is strongly encouraged.
Photo by Jim Cox