HACKETTSTOWN, NJ – Centenary Stage Company’s (CSC) NEXTStage Repertory is currently in rehearsals for their production of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” adapted and directed by Stephen Michael Davis. Performances will take place in the Little Theatre on the Centenary University campus at 400 Jefferson Street in Hackettstown. Tickets are $17.50 for all seats. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit centenarystageco.org or call the box office at 908-979-0900.
“The Tempest” is Shakespeare’s comedy about betrayal, ill-treatment and the development of magical arts, all set against the backdrop of a plot for revenge. Twelve years earlier, Prospero was the Duke of Milan, but his bookish nature led him to rely on his brother Antonio to manage the state. In time, Antonio, with the help of Alonso, King of Naples, and King Alonso’s brother Sebastian, usurped Prospero’s dukedom. Prospero and his young daughter Miranda were cast out to sea in a decrepit boat and eventually washed ashore on a remote island, once ruled by the witch Sycorax and now inhabited by her son Caliban and Ariel, a spirit. Using his mastery of magic, Prospero sets in motion a series of events to confront those who betrayed him. The play explores themes of power, revenge, forgiveness and the complex dynamics of human relationships, blending elements of comedy, romance and tragedy. Through its intricate characters and shifting realities, “The Tempest” examines how acts of betrayal and manipulation give way to reconciliation and growth.
Performances will take place Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7 p.m.; Friday, Feb. 7 at 10 a.m. and 8 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 8 at 8 p.m.; Sunday, Feb. 9 at 2 p.m.; and Monday, Feb. 10 at 7 p.m.
The CSC box office is open Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and two hours prior to performances. The box office is located in the Lackland Performing Arts Center on the campus of Centenary University at 715 Grand Avenue, Hackettstown.
