REVIEW: Audience included in enchanting 'Tempest'

Although the program lists only eight cast members for the Theatre Arts Project show The Tempest, they should have added a ninth -- the audience. Throughout the premiere last night of the nearly two-hour Shakespeare production, actors climbed over, stared at, and sat among audience members, allowing them to actively participate in the show's experience. And while the director James Schlatter said yesterday that the show was designed to explore the relationship between the audience and the performers, the show even went beyond that. Schlatter masterfully directed the nearly flawless show, which runs through Saturday in the Studio Theater, and every aspect of the production clearly demonstrated his effort and skill. For instance, the initially stark set leaps to life as the actors creatively utilize the limited space of the theater. The brilliance of the set is coupled with unsurpassed acting ability by the players, demonstrated by their dexterity in assuming multiple roles. While Prospero, played by Mark Lowenstern, leads the cast and often presides over the action, it was College junior Jeff Morrison, assuming the roles of Caliban and Ferdinand, who stole the show. Morrison captivated the audience with every awkward body motion, mangled word, and drool. College sophomore Alanna Medlock is also notable as both Miranda and Ariel. She truly lived up to the leading role with her subtlety and command on the stage bringing to light the parallels between her two characters. Lighting designer Eve Simon, a College senior, also deserves recognition for the deft lighting plan. Each lighting cue reflected the magical theme of the show. The Tempest continues through Saturday at the Studio Theater. Tickets are $5 and are available on Locust Walk.

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