Shakespeare's THE TEMPEST Unveiled World Premiere At The Smith Center
The Smith Center drew back the curtains in the world premiere of its first-ever co-production, William Shakespeare’s THE TEMPEST, to unveil a wonderful land of wizardry in Symphony Park on April 5, 2014.
Produced in partnership with the renowned American Repertory Theater (A.R.T.), THE TEMPEST is a re-imagined version of William Shakespeare’s work that explores the magical story of shipwrecked aristocrats that wash up on the shores of Prospero’s strange island and find themselves immersed in a world of trickery and amazement.
Debuting before an enthusiastic audience, co-director and adapter Teller (of legendary duo Penn & Teller) addressed the crowd.
He discussed the inspiration behind THE TEMPEST, the importance of bringing Shakespeare to Las Vegas and the significance of the production premiering at The Smith Center.
Following the opening remarks, the audience was transported to a majestic land of mystery beneath the old world tent.
Creatures came to life and music by Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan, performed by Rough Magic, could be heard.
Co-director and adapter Aaron Posner and Choreographer Matt Kent of Pilobolus were in the house supporting the cast. The talented cast includes Tom Nelis as Prospero, Louis Butelli as Antonio, Nate Dendy as Ariel, Christopher Donahue as Alonso, Dawn Didawick as Gonzala, Joby Earle as Ferdinand, Zachary Eisenstat and Manelich Minniefee as Caliban, Charlotte Graham as Miranda, Eric Hissom as Stephano, Jonathan M. Kim as Trinculo, and Edmund Lewis as Sebastian.
Running through April 27, The Tempest is sponsored by Land Rover Las Vegas with additional sponsorship support provided by Caesars Entertainment.
Since opening in 2012, The Smith Center has made an effort to continuously enhance the artistic culture within the community by hosting top-tier talents and Broadway productions season after season. The Smith Center is thrilled to further its endeavors with the debut of its first-ever co-production. Photo credit: Geri Kodey/The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
Bill Cody is an entertainment, technology and luxury travel reporter in Las Vegas. He reports on celebrities, events, tech, food, Las Vegas and luxury travel.