WNET shoot of a live performance of Julie Taymor's small-cast abbreviated rendition of Shakespeare's timeless tale. An exquisite example of 'poor theatre'. Through metaphoric gesture and top-flight performances the tale of the aged master wizard laying down his staff is beautifully told. Living on a not-quite deserted island, Prospero invokes a storm to shipwreck his former enemies. His servants Ariel and the loathsome Caliban help him set things aright. In the course of events his daughter Miranda comes of age and falls in love, the spirit Ariel is set free and Caliban goes on a bender with the ship's cook. Prospero's great soliloquy "Our revels now have ended..." is regarded by admirers of the Bard as W.S.'s farewell to the stage. Shown on PBS, apparently not available. A fine 1979 version by Derek Jarman is available on DVD.
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