Mark Carlisle stars in Shakespeare in the Squares fifth anniversary production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, which tours to 18 squares across London.
Sioned Jones directs Mark Carlisle, Laura Gomez Gracia, Indigo Griffiths, Phyllis Ho, Ellis Kerkhoven, William Shackleton, Wilf Walsworth and Sasha Wilson.
The Tempest opens on 21 June at Arundel and Ladbroke Gardens, with previews from 15 June, and completes its run on 8 July at Cleveland Square.
Shakespeare in the Squares is now a central fixture in the calendar of Summer outdoor theatre, with each production tailored to the individual garden squares. The company works with the garden committees and other local organisations to create a unique community celebration around the play.
All venues and ticket information can be found here
You’re starring in The Tempest, touring 18 local garden squares across London, what can you tell us about this production?
This is an open-air production with a cast of creative and talented actor-musicians. It will be very colourful and upbeat, with sunny music from the US 1960’s- Dean Martin songs for example, as well as some original material. It is one of Shakespeare’s most enjoyable, sophisticated, but accessible comedies.
What was it about Shakespeare in the Squares as a company that made you so keen to work with them?
I’ve performed in open air shows before, particularly Shakespeare, and they’ve been some of my favourite acting experiences. To have the chance to come back to the stage after the pandemic, while working in my hometown in lovely settings is particularly appealing. The director Sioned Jones is also an old friend.
You’re playing Alonso, what are you enjoying most about the role?
As always with Shakespeare roles, there is always so much to discover, even with the most modest roles. Alonso is no exception. Shakespeare always surprises, because you think you know what the role is going to be like, but there is always so much more to find. I’m enjoying letting the character reveal himself to me.
What do you think will be the biggest challenges in touring this show to London garden squares?
If there is bad weather, possible background noise and mischievous garden sprites. Most venues I believe have wet weather alternative venues nearby where a retreat is possible if it really pours down.
How would you describe the way the company creates a unique celebration around the show?
The choice of music and physical movement set pieces will be a new way of seeing Shakespeare for many people. It’s true uniqueness will only really become apparent to us once we’ve finished rehearsals and have presented it to an audience. In a sense, every production has something of its own flavour and uniqueness.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see The Tempest?
I’d definitely recommend it. Summer in the city. A great Shakespeare play in a relaxed and informal picturesque setting with lovely music – what’s not to like?
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