Tulsa Shakespeare Company's bold reimagining of 'The Tempest' along Route 66 is a glittering spectacle that transforms Shakespeare's final solo work into a captivating exploration of family, betrayal, and redemption. This production, set in a fading roadside town, offers a unique blend of magic, drag performance, and contemporary themes, challenging traditional notions of family and identity.
The production's director, Rachel Steed, a vice president of the company's board, draws inspiration from both Shakespearean tradition and the vibrant world of drag performance. She explains, 'The show touches on themes of family, betrayal, and redemption. Using the aesthetic of drag performers allows us to examine what family means, how we show up for our chosen and born families, and lets us have fun with the kind of casting choices Shakespeare and his contemporaries employed.'
Steed's previous collaboration with Theatre North on 'Othello' showcases her versatility and commitment to innovative storytelling. For this production, she has assembled a talented ensemble cast, including Tulsa native Jenny Guy as Prospero, alongside J Tomlinson, Davis Simpson, and other accomplished actors.
The Route 66 setting adds a layer of intrigue to the story, reflecting on the isolation and reinvention of a once-thriving corner of America. The production's use of drag performance as a narrative device is particularly intriguing, as it challenges gender norms and explores the fluidity of identity.
One of the most compelling aspects of this adaptation is its exploration of family dynamics. Prospero's quest for revenge against those who betrayed her becomes a metaphor for the complexities of familial relationships. The show questions whether family is defined by blood or by choice, and how we show up for those we love.
The production's accessibility is also noteworthy. The company offers a 'pay what you can' opening night performance on May 14, making theater more accessible to the community. This initiative aligns with the company's commitment to community-driven coverage and engagement.
In my opinion, this reimagining of 'The Tempest' is a testament to the power of artistic interpretation. It challenges us to think about the themes of family, identity, and redemption in new and unexpected ways. The use of drag performance as a narrative tool is particularly thought-provoking, inviting us to question societal norms and embrace the fluidity of human identity.
As an audience member, I look forward to experiencing this production and engaging with the complex themes it presents. The Tulsa Shakespeare Company's bold approach to classic literature is a welcome addition to the local theater scene, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless story.
