Shakespeare's The Tempest is transported to 5th century Korea in this dramatic re imagining and adaptation of his final and most poetic play. King Zilzi, immersed in his study of Taoist magic, leaves the care of his kingdom in the hands of King Zabi. While he is away, Zabi takes control and, with the help of Zilzi's brother, Soji, banishes him from his lands.
Inspired by a true story from the Korean Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms, Tae-Suk Oh's The Tempest blends extraordinary historical fact with Shakespearean fiction, infusing both with elements of traditional Korean culture and folklore. Prospero's book of magic transforms into a multi-coloured magical fan, Caliban becomes Ssangdua - a two-headed monster - and Ariel becomes Zewoong, a Shaman priestess made of straw and the protector and dispeller of evil spirits. Read more …
With music played on traditional Korean instruments and incorporating richly layered costumes, this fantastical production explores the limitations and possibilities of human nature through the acts of betrayal, love, forgiveness and eventual reconciliation.
The simplicity of the closing scenes, as Prospero grants freedom to the characters, is surprisingly touching and the piece as a whole has a playful, inventive appeal.
At only 90 minutes, it was not a profound interpretation of the play. Rather, it was playful and bright, the kind of thing you can imagine appealing to the groundlings in the Globe, absurdist comedy and all.
The Bard of Asia
King's Theatre, Edinburgh from Saturday August 13, 2011, until Tuesday August 16, 2011. More info: http://www.edtheatres.com/kings