Shakespearean comedy and fantasy took on an all new dimension as the characters and setting of ‘The Tempest’ came to life at the Lionel Wendt this past weekend.  Jehan Aloysius and CentreStage Productions revived a sub plot of the masterpiece with an alternative viewpoint; adorned in what was one of the most magnificent sets I had laid my eyes on.

From Friday 23^rd to Sunday 25^th the Lionel Wendt transfigured into a primeval land swathed in magic, as ‘Caliban’s Rebellion’ breathed new life into the native’s revolt for love and control. A steady fan base moved in to pack the auditorium on the opening night I was present to watch the show.

 

 

‘Caliban’s Rebellion’, conceived, devised and directed by Jehan Aloysius follows a sub plot in Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest.’ A fresh take on the characters of Prospero and Caliban in particular, Jehan’s script allows room for interpretation and thus audience involvement, as much as it redefines and spins around the masterpiece.

The adaptation essentially redeems Caliban and aims at shifting our partiality to the maltreated native. Conflict between conqueror versus the conquered, and the slave-master dynamics were themes that were beautifully explored on different levels. This alternate perspective on ‘The Tempest’ seemed to present the affinity for colonialism in a negative light.

 

 

On that note, it is a rather complex plot for the average audience to follow, unless of course you were a Shakespeare buff, or are familiar with ‘The Tempest’, or perhaps “did your research” before watching the play. Nevertheless the acting and techniques, humour and music all made the extraordinary story a common man’s indulgence.

Though you might leave a bit baffled if you did not know the story already, anyone could vouch for the impeccable standard of the show, or perhaps a renewal of the high standards that Jehan is reputed for. The precision on stage shed light on the exacting nature of the rehearsals, and kudos to the cast joined in by Jehan himself, for a job well done.

 

 

Special mention goes out to Rebecca Munasinghe who played Ariel and Aaron Chitranjan who stepped into the soles of Caliban. Some very interesting, vaguely distracting costumes took to the stage, but all adding a great sense of originality and credibility to the story. Music and choreography were superb too.

If you weren’t at the show and are wondering why I keep harping on all aspects turning out well, let me tell you that the immensity of the entire production seems rather ambitious, but Jehan and the team pulled it off very well. From time to time throughout the length of the show, the auditorium united in applause and admiration at the effortless execution. To have pushed the envelope so much and yet so well, they do deserve due mention.

 

 

In terms of technique and device, I can safely say the play contained a number of first-time stage gimmicks for the local audience. I believe the underwater effect was a particular favourite of many!  The set was spectacular.

The vibrancy and effervescence of an island living and thriving off magic and sorcery were brought out so well, that it was simply captivating and one couldn’t easily take their eyes away. At any given moment the stage was as colourful as it could get. The sounds were neatly done, and all these aspects proved vital in bringing to life Jehan’s adaptation set in the mysterious island.

 

 

It’s a pity indeed if you missed it, and were you present you are probably still recovering from the play’s exceptional caliber. To sum up ‘Caliban’s Rebellion’, it was cleverly designed and neatly executed, and that translates into Jehan Aloysius having done it in style, yet again.

 

Guest Comments

 

Anurangi – They took stagecraft to another level. Simply magical! (And the underwater scene will be one of my highlights for year 2013!) I could also say that they added a whole new dimension to the art of story telling and it was an absolute treat to the senses. From Stormy Weather, Pyramus and Thisby to Rag (saw it 3 times last year!!!) they always keep pushing the limits and that’s what I love about their work. Even if it’s a story we all know they give it a new twist and make it their own through the most innovative ways. They just made magic on stage! It was Sri Lankan stagecraft at its very best.

Suchiththa - Loved the visuals! Script was great too. I felt the actors could be more on voice, as their voices tended to get lost a bit when the bigger movements set in.

Hiruda - Well done! It was one awesome stageplay. A stageplay which everyone should watch. Thanks for the wonderful time once again.

Arnita Mariyah Amarasekara - It was absolutely amazing. Loved every minute of it! And I loved that 'shake' cali-bang!!

 

 

 

By Nivedha Jeyaseelan

Pics courtesy of  Shehal Joseph