The Tempest Stage Layouts
This basic layout will function in the staging of each scene as a basic rubric for placements.
The opening scene will have a great emphasis on the storm and the water. The waves will be created by masked actors using undulating white sheets. Lighting will also play a major role in giving the true feel of a storm. The emphasis on the storm will set the play up to focus on the elements of the supernatural in the context of The Tempest. A two-tiered stage construction will act as the ship, and later as Prospero's home. This one simple construction will create the feel of two rooms and give actors access between those spaces with relative ease. A small part of the island will peak out in the upstage left to show that there is land in sight.
This scene's set-up juxtaposes the sinking ship with Prospero and Miranda's relative safety. From this view, the audience can see the simultaneous action just as the characters do. This will also give the audience the first view into Prospero's island and home. The waves will remain on set to remind the audience that the other actors are still facing the storm.
This scene introduces the island to the characters who are now on shore for the first time. Prospero's home remains somewhat hidden in the distance, but still in view to convey that Prospero is all-knowing to what happens on the island. The extensive beach and trees give the actors room to move and hide without having to change the set very much. The calm water remains in view to remind the audience of the situation which led the actors here.
This scene's layout provides for more intimate interaction between Ferdinand and Miranda. Prospero remains on the top level of the structure, observing their actions.
These scene layouts allow for more open space for interaction and room to navigate the island. Again, Prospero's home remains in a hidden view.
In this scene, the setting is pushed downstage, closer to the audience. This makes the climactic action more engaging and brings all of the characters together in close proximity, though Ferdinand and Miranda stay upstairs, hidden from the actors' view.
This scene set-up remains similar to Act IV scene i, but the clothesline and other home items are removed to give more open room. This set-up again allows for the action to take place downstage, flocked by the beach and trees. Prospero then gives his epilogue center stage, surrounded by his island.