By Simek Shropshire
Envy, accusation and sensuality — all essential, spectacular elements of the most fantastic Shakespearean plays. The Pearl Theater Company’s rendition of William Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale does not disappoint in this regard. The plot is tragic: Sicilian king (Peter Francis James) named Leontes accuses his queen, Hermione (Jolly Abraham), of adultery. Before an oracle declares Hermione to be innocent, Leontes irrationally orders his newborn child to be left in the forest. Sounds like a great guy, right?
Located on West 42nd Street, The Pearl has all the workings of an established theater that boasts a seasoned, talented cast. Director Michael Sexton creates an eccentric performance that is perfect for this tiny, intimate theater. The stately dining room in which the first three acts take place sports bottles of Jameson on a tray and a framed poster for a George Balanchine ballet. The very order of the room is meant to sharply juxtapose the tumultuous nature of the plot. The lifestyles of the shepherd and his companions mirror that of a 1960s hippie commune, denim vests and all.
Peter Francis James’ performance, alongside Jolly Abraham, stands out from those of the other actors. James brings a physicality to Leontes that is hardly seen in the other actors’ portrayals. Gnashing his teeth and sweating, James creates an uncontrollable character that audiences quickly despise for his selfishness, yet cannot help but forgive in the final act. With Abraham playing James’ opposite, she likewise delivers an emotional performance that captivates audiences just as Hermione arrests the hearts of her fellow characters.
Still, the plot sometimes drags with the employment of modernized musical numbers reminiscent of Bob Dylan and the over-embellished, studied performances found in the forest scenes. The portrayal of characters Perdita (Imani Jade Powers) and Florizel (James Udom) seem stiff, and too much emphasis is placed on their physical attraction to one another. This interpretation of the play may have been a deliberate, modernized portrayal of young love in the present era. Either way, the portrayals of the young lovers lacked a theatrical spark that could be seen in the aged relationship between Leontes and Hermione.
While The Winter’s Tale continues through March 15, it offers an excellent excuse to take a last-minute excursion into Manhattan before Spring Break.
