By Elizabeth James
Prospero Arts and Media presents Shaking the Earth by Frances Smeath, a rich play about Christopher Marlowe, a contemporary of William Shakespeare, and the dangerous conspiracy he finds himself trapped in. The producer, Mahonri Stewart, has been working to produce Shaking the Earth “for half a decade” but “things kept getting in the way,” he says “But we had an obligation to do this script, we had a desire to do this script…Fran’s powerful work needs wider exposure.” Stewart’s work, along with the work of the director, Jarom Brown, and that of the cast and crew, has been well-spent. Together, they have created a stirring rendition of Shaking the Earth that is bound to make an impact in the hearts of all of their viewers.
The experience begins when you walk into the Third Space Studios. Renaissance music plays as you enter the dimly-lit theater. Even before the play has started, you feel as if you are in their world; the atmosphere is that of a comfortable pub, a gathering place for the characters, and you are already there, involved.
Thomas Hariot, played by Jared Dukapoo, opens with an energetic monologue. He looks directly at the audience, and because of the atmosphere already established, and because Hariot is looking every individual in the eyes, you feel as if you are a part of the story.
Then you are sucked into the events.
Marlowe (Adam Argyle) is overly-enthusiastic to make his mark on the world. Argyle is so full of energy that you are rooting for his character from the very beginning, and as the story goes along, you feel his pain and want him to come out with a win. He is full of banter and life, which is soon replaced by a more experienced and broken character. Argyle shows this change in Marlow so subtly but convincingly–he’s consistently full of spirit, but that spirit metamorphosizes from enthusiasm to fight. Argyle says, “Playing Marlow has been a unique challenge. There is so much packed into this wonderful script as he goes from an ambitious, yet naive, student to world weary poet.”
Shout out to Zachary Ballard, who plays Thomas Walsingham; his performance is stirring. Ballard’s emotion is so real and visceral; he is deeply engaging and convincing.
Shaking the Earth is truly an experience worth having. Mahonri Stewart wants viewers to know that “it is a dense script, not for a lark, certainly. But I have found that is also rich with meaning.” There is so much care put into the acting and the staging; it is bound to get every audience involved –the opening music, the minimalist stage, and the passionate interactions; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
Prospero Arts and Media presents Shaking the Earth, by Frances Smeath
Third Space Studios, 247 W Center Street, Provo, UT 84606
Tickets: $12 general admission, $10 students, military, and seniors
June 14-15, 17, 21-22; 7:30 PM
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