The stuff that dreams are made of takes shape at PA Shakespeare Fest

by Ruth Isenberg

The Tempest is a show about magic. The current production at the PA Shakespeare Festival at DeSales University is magical, incorporating music, a simple yet vibrant set, and actors that can handle both beautiful and reflective language and low (but hilarious) comedy equally skillfully, to bring what is undeniably a preposterous plot alive.

Dreams are complicated, and so are these portrayals. Propspero, as played by Robert Cuccioli, is both a powerful magician and a troubled man. His love for his daughter Miranda (Billie Wyatt) is obvious, as is his matchmaking. At the same time, his treatment of Caliban (Christopher Patrick Mullen) is sometimes cruel, and his treatment of faithful sprite Ariel (Sarah Gliko) feels high-handed, almost ungrateful.

Some Shakespeare plays include bad socalled “low comedy.” The trio, which includes Mullen, who supply the comedy in this performance are superb and superbly musical.

The play also includes a gratuitous set piece where Prospero summons goddesses to display his skill. Pretty, but not needed.

The Tempest is a difficult play to capture in words, but delightful in viewing. It continues through August 6.