Parkside Theatre at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside presents William Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale" for eight performances. This delightful mix of the tragic and the comic runs Dec. 5 to 13 in the August Wegner Studio Theatre of the Communication Arts Building, 900 Wood Rd., Kenosha.
Director Jamie Cheatham said this is considered one of Shakespeare's "problem" plays because it defies easy classification as a tragedy or a comedy.
"In fact, 'The Winter's Tale' feels like two separate plays that only come together in the final scenes. The first part, which takes place in the court of Sicilia, feels like a Greek tragedy, filled with suspicion, fear and abuse of power," Cheatham stated. "Part two takes place in Bohemia, 16 years later! This half feels like a romantic, pastoral comedy filled with lovers and loveable clowns."
Cheatham assures us that by play's end these two worlds are united. In addition to a happy ending, "Winter's Tale" also is known for this unique bit of stage direction: exit pursued by bear.
This tale opens with King Leontes of Sicilia (played by Phil Zimmerman) growing suspicious of the relationship between his friend, the handsome King Polixenes of Bohemia (Derek Ewing), and Leontes' pregnant wife, Hermione (Allison Hipple). Jealousy rears its ugly head and Leontes orders a servant to poison the Bohemian king. Instead, Polixenes escapes leaving Hermione and her child to bear the full fury of the Sicilian king's wrath.
Years later, Prince Florizel (played by Karl Gfall), the son of Polixenes, is smitten with Perdita (Eva Balistrieri), a shepherd's daughter who is really the banished child of King Leontes. Polixenes orders his son never to see her again but Florizel and Perdita escape?to Sicily! Reunions, rejoicing, and a miracle ensue.
The cast also includes Amanda Kay Thomm, Dylan Roberts, Mark Baumgartner, Peter Mol, Jon Finnegan, Sarah Mergener, and Dan Kroes. Student designers include scenic design by Peter Komistra, lighting design by Scott Schroeder, and sound design by Phil Wooding. Original music was composed by Terrance Barrett. "
"The Winter's Tale" is presented Dec. 5, 6, 11, 12, and 13 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 5 and 12 at 10 a.m., and Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $8 for students and can be ordered online at http://tickets.uwp.edu/ or by phone at 262-595-2564.Publish date: 11/26/2008
