Idle Muse Theatre Company presents the world premiere production of Upon This Shore: A Tale of Pericles and the Daughters of Tyre.
Director and Adaptor Evan Jackson ambitiously orchestrates one of Shakespeare’s less recognized works. At its core, the tale is about a prince separated from his wife and child. As with any Shakes’ saga, the story is never as simple as that. The Bard adds in mistaken identities, multiple characters and twisting plot lines. Although his complicated dramas have led to 400+ years of theatrical success, it can be challenging for an audience to follow a more unfamiliar play. It’s this experience of unknown elements that impacted the first act of this show.
In Act 1, Jackson paces it with quick scenes and 13 actors playing multiple parts. The changing roles in short bursts of time makes it difficult to sort out who’s who and what’s what. On a small stage, the frenzy of activity steals focus. Instead of leaning in to the tale, the audience is left trying to decipher the comings and goings. Even a momentary epiphany is interrupted by another swirling current of new people and places. In a brief span, Watson Swift plays three different kings. Even though he changes tunics, the transformation doesn’t completely establish a new character. A killing adds to the unclear identification of bodies.
Jackson also faithfully wrote his adaptation in Shakespearean prose. The formal dialogue adds another layer of complexity to clear comprehension particularly in Act 1. In the lead, Brendan Hutt (Pericles) is a stand out in his conversational delivery in the Bard’s tongue. His steadfast performance establishes his character and effectively navigates his journey through the storm.
The second act is much more succinct. The pace relaxes allowing intrigue to build and stories to unfold. Elizabeth C. MacDougald also serves as an informal narrator. Although I’m uncertain if she is deity or royalty at this time, she provides much needed context to support the action. The changing momentum gives an impressive Jennifer Mohr time to transform from nurturing to deliciously wicked. Her facial expressions add dark humor to her dark deeds. A wistful Caty Gordon (Marina) brings hope and purpose. Her appearance provides the audience with someone to root for as she overcomes an absurd level of misfortune.
Jackson leads Idle Muse Theatre back from its pandemic lockdown with his Shakespearean adaptation. Upon This Shore: A Tale of Pericles and the Daughters of Tyre is an innovative return showcasing his enthusiastic company members. Even though Act 1 could be slimmed down and tightened up, it’s nice to be back in Idle Muse’s company.
Running Time: Two hours with one intermission
The Edge Off-Broadway Theater, 1133 W. Catalpa
Based on “Pericles, Prince of Tyre” by William Shakespeare
Adapted and directed by Evan Jackson
Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 8pm
Sundays at 3pm
Thru April 3rd
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