What do you get when you combine some magical conjuring, a shipwreck and a love story? For the local theater group, Bend Experimental Art Theatre, the answer is “The Tempest,” William Shakespeare’s classic featuring themes of magic, betrayal and forgiveness. The production, part of BEAT’s 20th anniversary year, hopes to make Shakespeare’s work exciting and accessible for young audiences.
Adapted and directed by Bree Beal, who grew up loving Shakespeare, “The Tempest” follows Prospero, the former Duke of Milan (played by Connall McMullen), who has been living on a remote island with his daughter, Miranda (played by Elsie Erard). The history is that Prospero’s brother, Antonio, betrayed him and conspired to take his position. When Prospero discovers that his enemies are sailing nearby, he uses his magical powers to create a tumultuous storm, bringing them ashore to his island. As old conflicts resurface, Miranda falls in love and Prospero faces a choice between revenge and forgiveness.
Although Shakespeare wrote the play more than 400 years ago, Beal sees plenty of reasons its themes are still relevant today.
“It’s a story of magic and adventure, but it also explores themes of power (who should have it and how it should be used.), our relationship with our environment and illusion versus reality (how do we know what is real?),” she says. “Shakespeare asks us to think about our human experience, while taking us on the most exciting, and hilarious, adventure!”
For Beal, part of the fun is figuring out how to make a Shakespeare production that connects with modern audiences young and old alike. Shakespeare’s language and storytelling can feel intimidating, so she adapted the script herself, using an old college assignment to create her version of the story.
Rather than treating Shakespeare as something that belongs only in a classroom, Beal wants audiences to experience the humor, adventure and humanity that is at the heart of his plays.
Making Shakespeare fun for her own young cast, she even starts rehearsals with some interesting facts. One favorite she mentions is: Of Uranus’ 27 moons, 24 are named for Shakespearean characters, including nine from “The Tempest.”
Beal hopes the experience offers young performers a chance to explore the playwright whose work has endured for generations.
For the lead, Connall McMullen, this production is particularly meaningful. A high school junior, McMullen has participated in eight BEAT productions, along with numerous classes and workshops. He also takes part in theater at his high school.
He has dreamed of performing in “The Tempest” for nearly a decade. At the end of last year, he thought he might take a break from theater. Then he heard about BEAT’s plans for the play.
“It has been my dream to perform this show for nearly ten years now,” McMullen says. “When I heard BEAT was putting on “The Tempest,” I knew that I would never hope for a better time, nor find a better cast.”
McMullen’s enthusiasm reflects his caring and intelligent nature, says Beal.
Elsie Erard, who plays Miranda, has also found the experience deeply rewarding. Performing Shakespeare has helped her develop as an actor, she says, and she appreciates the supportive environment of BEAT.
“The people here care so much about the actors and community and it’s such a blessing in my life to be a part of it,” Erard says.
She believes “The Tempest” is a particularly good fit for BEAT, and adds, “The Tempest” is such a beautiful production, and the way that BEAT is interpreting it just shines and gives everyone the opportunity to have their moment, and it’s a great representation of how the BEAT community comes together to make something magnificent.”
Staging a play filled with magic presents a few challenges, especially when considering the small size of Open Space. That’s where creativity is key.
The stage will mostly represent the island where the story takes place, with handmade trees constructed from pool noodles and PVC pipe. “The dramatic set pieces will come on at the beginning for the big tempest and shipwreck scene so we can start off big!” says Beal.
The goal is to make the island feel alive while leaving enough room for the characters and their adventures to unfold. That’s where problem-solving is key.
Behind the scenes, volunteers play an essential role in BEAT’s productions. Surprisingly, BEAT operates with just two staff members and relies on costume and set volunteers to contribute. Parents help welcome audiences, manage tickets, usher guests to their seats and support the performers throughout the shows.
As Beal states, “Our BEAT parents are amazing at manning the shows!”
For families who have never attended a Shakespeare play, “The Tempest,” offers a magical setting, hilarious moments, drama and romance even for audiences who may be intimidated by Shakespeare’s language.
With some important moral dilemmas front and center, audiences will easily relate and adapt their prospective to some modern-day issues. Prospero’s journey toward forgiveness certainly gives audiences something to think about.
As BEAT begins its 20th year, “The Tempest” is a perfect show to capture the imagination and community spirit of local theater.
“The Tempest”
November 6-15
Open Space Event Studios
Friday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 7, at 2 and 7 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 8, at 2 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 14, at 2 and 7 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 15, at 2 p.m.
Tickets: $15 – $25
For more information:
beatchildrenstheatre.org
This article appears in Bend Nest Winter 2026.
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