The Winter’s Tale

            The production of The Winter’s Tale at The Courtyard Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon by the Royal Shakespeare Company was one of great interpretation that provided good and interesting insight into the play.  This production was unique in several aspects including the setting of the stage, the props and the characters. As the tale begins, the lighting is dark and candlelit to portray Sicilia as a harsh and worldly place, while Bohemia is full of light and pieces of nature to represent a more uplifting fantastical environment. With the changing light and sets on the circular stage, the audience is able to be more involved and better understand the feeling of the place where each part of the play takes place. Although these particular aspects contribute much to the play, it is the players that make the production such an impressive experience.

Most of the actors portrayed their characters excellently by taking what Shakespeare has written and bringing them to life. However, one of the characters stood out amidst them all and brought a very commanding stage presence. Although Paulina has an important role in the play, the actress brings a more powerful air to the stage and seems to play a much more vital role to the evolving story in the production.  While producing this play on stage, the director has a few options on how to portray Paulina’s character. This specific time, when Paulina steps on stage, something about her demands not only the attention of Leontes but the attention of the entire audience as well. Her loud voice and authoritative actions around the entire stage all contribute to the powerful woman she embodies.

            One particularly dominant moment is when Paulina confronts Leontes about the child his wife has born. Although this part could have been done many ways, the director chooses to allow Paulina’s outspokenness to be recognized and have the king respond in a specific way. While he could have ignored her and turned his attention elsewhere, he seems to listen with increasing anger. And though he doesn’t fully focus on her as she speaks, his body language suggests that her words hit him and make an impression on his mind. As she speaks to him, she does not give in to his masculine power nor give in to his view of women’s fidelity. Her direct approach illustrates her courageous attitude and willingness to stand up to the king’s arrogance.

            Although there are many interpretations of different aspects of the play, one thing that is always unique to each production is the domination of certain characters. In this case of The Winter’s Tale, the presence of Paulina is definitely one of the most powerful. The character she brings to the stage and her authoritative actions make the production more compelling and allow the audience to be consumed with Shakespeare’s tale.