Celebrating 25 years of professional theatre and following its highly acclaimed ‘The Merchant of Venice’ (2009) the celebrated actors and musicians of the Festival Players Theatre Company will bring to life an exciting adaptation of the Bard’s final great poetic comedy with ‘The Tempest’ – all played out in the very heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog.
In the play the exiled Duke Prospero conjures a tempestuous storm to lure his enemies to a strange and mysterious island, drawing them through a web of enchantment and illusion as his powers reach their height. A treacherous brother, fellow conspirators and old friends alike all fall under his spell.
Renowned for his classic and witty adaptations of Shakespeare productions, Artistic Director for The Festival Players, Michael Dyer said: “The Tempest seemed like a notably epic drama for our silver anniversary year. It combines treachery, conspiracy and sorcery in a colourful and fascinating tale to make it one of Shakespeare’s great comedies. It has so many themes – not just love, tragedy and comedy but freedom, friendship, repentance and forgiveness. All life is there – and we aim to make it a high energy production for all the family.”
It will be Worcestershire-based Dyer’s sixth all-male production in a row for the Players. “In 2005 there were some raised eyebrows when we performed A Midsummer Night’s Dream without actresses. Since then we have had all-male productions of Hamlet, As You Like It, Much Ado About Nothing and The Merchant of Venice and now audience feedback has proved that most people see it as an intriguing diversion from the norm. And of course it is totally authentic – we are following in the footsteps of Shakespeare’s own Globe Theatre when all roles were taken by men.”
Centre Warden for Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, Natalie Fisher said “We’re really pleased to welcome The Festival Players back to the National Park. Performed in the grounds of the National Park Visitor Centre, Libanus and set against the stunning backdrop of the highest peaks of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, this thrilling outdoor performance surely makes the perfect summer’s evening. Judging on their past performances we are expecting a great turnout and a hugely enjoyable evening.”
People are invited to bring their own outdoor seating, rugs, blankets and picnics. Drinks can also be purchased from the Tea Rooms before the performance, which starts at 7:30pm.
Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased from the National Park Visitor Centre, Libanus by telephoning 01874 623 366 or emailing visitor.centre@breconbeacons.org
Advance tickets: Adults £10, children and concessions £7.50.
Tickets on the night: Adults £14, children and concessions £10.