30 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY OCTOBER 9-15, 2025 www.montereycountynow.com ONSTAGE The nights are getting chilly but PacRep’s The Tempest at the Outdoor Forest Theater brings anything but an ill wind. This story of a revenge abandoned and politics dropped in the name of unity, written in 1611, is said to be the last Shakespeare penned on his own. It is set on a deserted island, an even safer destination than Italy or Denmark, settings from where Shakespeare liked to comment on the political theater of his contemporary England. Typically considered a comedy, The Tempest is a story of a betrayal of one royal brother by another, resulting in Prospero (played by Michael Ray Wisely) being sent to the sea to vanish. Yet the exiled Prospero and his baby daughter, Miranda, survive and prosper in the new world, a location likely inspired by the new era of colonialism—perhaps even the Bermudas, from where tales of shipwrecks were reaching King James’ England. The same small but fearless crew of actors and director Kenneth Kelleher who brought us Saint Joan only weeks ago at the Circle Theatre, return for a three-weekend adventure on Carmel’s famous outdoor stage—with one addition to the troupe: San Francisco-based actress and dancer Anjoli Aguilar (as both Prospero’s spirit servant Ariel and his daughter Miranda). Once again, they prove that much can be accomplished with only seven actors on stage. As the plot develops, an opportunity for revenge comes to Prospero, now a powerful magician. But when he faces his enemies in the new territory, Prospero finds it in his heart to forgive and set for a hopeful future. Assigning dual roles to a majority of the cast again works successfully. Aguilar in particular is compelling as Miranda/Ariel through her acrobatic skills and grace. River Navaille shines bright as Stephano, showing off their comedic timing and vocal range. Praise should go to each actor. Kelleher delivers not only as a director, but also as set and sound designer, again bringing contemporary music to the play—as well as a pair of clowns, enjoying their drunken time by the sea. The videography (Garland Thompson Jr.) and lighting (Joanna Hobbs) complement the scenes beautifully. One can only wish for the show to run longer than three weekends. The Tempest 7:30 Thursdays-Saturdays until Oct. 18. Outdoor Forest Theater, Mountain View and Santa Rita, Carmel. $46; $36/seniors; $26/teachers, military; $16/ students; $11/children. (831) 622-0100, pacrep.org. STEPHEN MOORER Gale Force PacRep’s small cast puts on Shakespeare’s The Tempest, the Bard’s classic tale of politics and reconciliation. By Agata Popęda Caliban (Matthew Kropschot) leaning above Ariel (Anjoli Aguilar). The same actors play Ferdinand and Miranda, whose marriage brings an end to the political conflict. The Oven Pizzeria is here to help! Whether it’s a corporate event, family gathering, or a graduation party, we’ve got the perfect pizzas to please everyone. Choose from our classic East Coast thin crust or signature West Coast sourdough for that unique slice. Let us handle the meal, so you can enjoy the time. Craving Pizza? Catering made easy visit www.TheOvenOnBroadway.com for our menu Call us at 831-899-1762 to order! FRESH. LOCAL. TASTY. Fisherman’s Wharf FRESHEST SEAFOOD with PANORAMIC VIEWS Open Daily at 11:30am • At the end of Fisherman’s Wharf #1 www.rockfishmonterey.com • 831.324.4375 TUESDAY OCTOBER 28, 2025 4-7 PM Local Artisans & Cuisine Live Music Museum Tours 506 Munras Avenue Monterey presents Amarla Handmade Basil + Olive Casa Isla Market Chieftess Monterey Bay Sequoia Chappellet Vanessa Cowdrey Remedios Antiguos Vendors Live Music Naima Nascimento & Friends Where History Meets Creativity & Community! Enter through Polk St. or Munras Ave. Gates
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