Performed on April 2, 2017
Venue: Open ir Theatre, Viharamahadevi Park
This production of “The Tempest” performed at the Open Air Amphitheatre was balanced, cohesive in style, and well-paced. Shakespeare and the marvellous text was very well delivered with clarity and understanding of not only the verse, but also the characters/roles.
Staged by Ananda Drama, a non-profit amateur theatre company, and presented by the Workshop Players. The latter, founded on March 7 1992, celebrated 25 years of promoting the Arts for Peace throughout the country.
The obvious talent was most encouraging, keeping the audience well entertained. This needs support for future development.
I thoroughly enjoyed young Ariel (Leeth Singhage) leaping about and appreciated the fact that our young people have to balance their academic studies with these extra activities, showing dedication and commitment.
The cast worked well together making a very stylish performance. Sets for a very large stage, costumes and music which conveyed the atmosphere of the Elizabethan era were well done. The sound system was good which enhanced the performance.
Ananda Drama directors, Nishantha de Silva and Ishtartha Wellaboda, and the production team are to be congratulated for a most riveting and entertaining evening. Niloufer Pieris
(Pix courtesy of Ima Hassen)