Frantic Tempest Program Guide

Creative Team Director

Ezra LeBank In collaboration with Frantic Assembly

Associate Director Dan Istrate

Scenic/Props Designer Saul Diaz

Sound Designer Jessica Dellrae Rivera

Associate Choreographer Clairey Evangelho

Costume Designer Di Herrera

Lighting Designer Josh van Veggel

Animation Designer Tamao Inanabe

Company Manager Claire Pearson

Stage Manager Lily Than

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A Note from the Director Welcome to Frantic/Tempest, a collaboration that brings the magic of Shakespeare’s The Tempest into the present day with the bold and physical style of Frantic Assembly, one of the UK’s leading physical theatre companies. In this highly physical production, we tell a story of freedom, forgiveness, and the clash between human ambition and nature’s retribution.

Set in an urban Los Angeles warehouse, amidst the urgent reality of climate change, our vision of The Tempest follows a journey for redemption in the ever-shifting and unpredictable landscape of a world at its tipping point.

It has been a joy to work alongside a remarkable student cast and creative team, whose dedication and talents have shaped this production at every stage. I am proud of our student design team, and I extend my gratitude to Associate Director Dan Istrate and Associate Choreographer Clairey

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Evangelho for their vision and expertise. I also wish to acknowledge Paolo Guidi and Steve Kirkham of Frantic Assembly, who trained the cast for a week in January and ignited a spark in our performers to inspire this action-packed interpretation of Shakespeare's classic.

Additional acknowledgements include the faculty design mentors, shop staff and student assistants, Chris Bange, Jennifer Richardson, Tyler Seiple, Jessica Woollen, and the wonderful student run crew.

I’m thrilled to invite you to join us as we continue our 2024-25 season theme “Laughing Together,” which also has a poetic bent this spring. Next up, we present Dipika Guha’s Yoga Play, a witty and poignant exploration of wellness culture, followed

by Caridad Svitch’s Red Bike, an evocative tale of personal discovery, and Qui Nguyen’s Alice in Slasherland, a delightful and darkly comic horror romp. We hope you’ll join us for these productions as we continue to explore the magic of live theatre and the connections it fosters.

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Amidst a winter of unthinkable devastation in Los Angeles, the privilege and importance of coming together for live theatre is as special and important now as it has ever been.

Thank you for joining us and being part of Frantic/Tempest.

Please follow our journey as this production transfers to New York for an encore performance April 4th & 5th presented by The Tank NYC. Now sit back, turn off your phone, and enjoy the magic of live theatre.

With gratitude,

Ezra LeBank Department Chair Theatre Arts & CalREP Director: Frantic/The Tempest

Cast

Christina Du Chene as “Prospero”

Christina Du Chene (Prospero) Christina Du Chene is a third year, theater arts performance major, who is so excited to bring two of her favorite sides of theater together in this Shakespearean movement piece. Her past CSULB credits include Ride the Cyclone (Constance) and Mr Burns (Matt).

Huge thanks to Frantic Assembly, the directing team, cast and crew for bringing this show to life.

Natalie Quinn (Ariel) Natalie Quinn is a third year Theatre Performance Major, and has been acting since the seventh grade. She has previously been seen in Urinetown (Josephine), You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown (Lucy), Romeo & Juliet (Juliet), and more. She has always loved working with Shakespeare and is overjoyed to be a part of this production alongside a wonderful cast and crew.

Natalie Quinn as “Ariel”

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Cast Enzo De Cunto (Stephano) Enzo De Cunto is thrilled to be on stage for the first time here at CSULB. Working with the cast, crew, and Frantic Assembly was a wonderful privilege that Enzo will hold with him for all his future acting endeavors. He'd like to thank everyone for coming to watch with good spirits :)

Enzo De Cunto as “Stephano”

Annabelle Kerns (Gonzalo) Annabelle Kerns is a senior theatre major and is grateful to be a part of another Cal Rep production.

She is so proud of her cast and is thankful for the entire team that put the production together!

Annabelle Kerns as “Gonzalo”

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Cast

Chloe Strolia as “Ferdinand”

Chloe Strolia (Ferdinand) Chloe is a 3rd year Theatre Performance major. They appeared as Andrea in For The Love Of (Or, The Roller Derby Play), and collaborated with Frantic Assembly as an assistant director. Chloe is thrilled to be working with Frantic again, and grateful to work alongside this passionate team of artists.

Tavia Williams (Miranda) Tavia Williams is a 3rd year transfer with a major in Theater Arts Performance. Her past credits include Hamlet (Ophelia) and Much Ado About Nothing (Hero).

This is Tavia’s first show at CSULB and she is incredibly thankful that she gets to share this opportunity with talented castmates and crew.

Tavia Williams as “Miranda”

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Cast

Christian Blandin as “Antonio”

Christian Blandin (Antonio) Concluding his journey at The Beach, Christian is delighted to return for another CalRep collaboration with the acclaimed Frantic Assembly before graduating this year. His Shakespearean repertoire includes the charismatic Don Pedro in Much Ado About Nothing and The Cunning Diomedes in Illium, a modern reimagining of Troilus and Cressida.

Aryan Chhabra (Trinculo) Aryan Chhabra is a 4th year Computer Science major at CSULB and is ecstatic about the opportunity to be in Frantic/Tempest. His previous work in CalRep includes Small Mouth Sounds (Ned). He wishes to thank the cast, crew, and Terance Kissel.

Aryan Chhabra as “Trinculo”

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Cast

Esmeralda Ruiz as “Caliban”

Esmeralda Ruiz (Caliban) Esmeralda Ruiz is a 4th year Theater Major who is excited as this will be her very first performance at CSULB. Her previous credits are Hairspray (Penny Pingleton) and Gilligan’s Island (Mary Anne Summers).

Infinite gratitude to the cast, crew, artistic team, and supporters.

Bobby Brannon (Alonso) Bobby (they/them) is really, really happy to be here today. They send their thanks to the cast, crew, Paolo, Steve, and their beloved ensemble.

They love Shakespeare and they love movement, this project has been a blessing and a joy. Thank you for being here today!

Bobby Brannen as “Alonso”

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Cast

Himika Kaku as “Sebastian”

Himika Kaku (Sebastian) Himika Kaku, is in her junior year as Theatre arts major. This is her first time performing at CSULB and is very thrilled to be part of this team.

Learning all of Frantic methods and Shakespeare were very challenging and yet it was an incredible opportunity to have. So many thanks to the support from the team.

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Crew Assistant Director Kyle Matsuda

Assistant Stage Manager Sonia Giansiracusa

Text Coach Tyler Seiple

Singing Coach Jennifer Richardson

Costume Crew Michael Ahumada Devyn Cusick Emma Howard Angel Robbson Devin Stone Emeli Ventura

Scenic Crew Kayci Baylon Celeste Ontiveros Dana Sandoval Kailee Young

Hair & Makeup Crew Sarah Heinesh Tianti Mhonae

Assistant Make-Up Coordinator Samuel Moran

Light & Sound Board Operators Cam Jimenez Elizabeth Sanchez Special Thanks Chris Bange Jessica Woollen

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Study Guide Frantic/Tempest is a devised piece between CSULB Theater Arts and Frantic Assembly.

You will be watching a world premiere.

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What is Frantic Assembly?

Frantic Assembly is a world-renowned UK-based theater company. The company was founded in 1994 by Scott Graham, Steven Hoggett, and Vicki Middleton. Since its start, Frantic Assembly has committed to creating brave and bold theatre that centers collaboration and leans on the physical to tell stories that we may not often see represented on stage. This method has made Frantic a world-renowned leader in devised, collaborative theater.

“We began with little more than a fierce work ethic and a desire to do something different and to do it differently.”

-Scott Graham, Founder Frantic Assembly

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Frantic Assembly tours across the UK and in over 40 countries

where

they

collaborate

with

world-

renowned artists to create work that is inspired by their unique creative process. They are hosted by professional companies all over the globe including here at Cal State Long Beach!

Frantic Assembly is known for its highly physical, movement-based devised theater, often created in collaboration with playwrights but built through ensemble work. Which has been seen in their productions like Things I Know to Be True, and Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. “Curious Incident” had 800 performances on Broadway after its time at the National Theatre and the West End. It won seven Olivier Awards including Best New Play in 2013 and went on to tour in the UK, The US, Australia, Mexico, Seoul, and South Africa.

What is Devised Theater?

Devised theater is a form of theater where the script or performance is created collaboratively by the ensemble, rather than being written by a single playwright. A devised piece of theater can start from anything… or nothing at all.

The process often involves improvisation, research, movement, and experimentation. It is constantly evolving. Notable examples include: The Laramie Project (Tectonic Theater Project), and Sleep No More (Punchdrunk).

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Physical theater is a type of devised theater that leans on physical motion to tell a story rather than text. Most of the theater you may have been exposed to

relies

on

words

to

convey

plot,

character

development and emotion. In contrast, physical theater

performers

communicate

through

movement and their interactions in the space.

Characteristics of Physical Theater include Strong use of movement, dance, mime Expressive physicality Minimal set, focus on performers’ bodies Collaborative creation process

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body

What is The Frantic Method?

Frantic Assembly is known widely for their process of making art which they call “The Frantic Method.” The Frantic Method of devising approaches the work as a series of tasks that create the framework for artistic discovery. By asking performers to strip down to the basic building blocks they are able to build the confidence needed to make complex discoveries in their art.

The starting point of The Frantic Method is diverse.

However, it all begins with a process of Research and Development that may be physically led or could be based on text.

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“We initially create the kernel of the idea and test this to see if it is interesting enough to us and if 'it has got legs' - whether it will stand up to scrutiny and be interesting to anyone else. This 'testing' is pretty much talking about the idea, letting it sit for a while and then returning to it with a wiser head to see if it still excites us” -Scott Graham, Founder Frantic Assembly

Once in the rehearsal space, the devising begins!

Under the Frantic Method devising is broken down into bite sized steps that create the building blocks for the production. Step by step questions are answered, truths are uncovered and a show is formed! The relationship between performer and director become a precious piece in this process where collaboration is key to accessing full imagination and creativity.

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Check out the Frantic Method Check out these videos from Frantic Assembly to get a sense for the rehearsal process.

Frantic Assembly joined the CalRep cast for 1 week, training students on the Frantic Building Block Method.

What is The Tempest?

Written by William Shakespeare

Watch the video for a recap

Shakespeare’s The Tempest themes: Power and control Magic and Illusion Revenge vs. Forgiveness Colonization and “The Other” Freedom and Servitude Transformation and Renewal CalRep’s Frantic/Tempest explores these themes through the text with the added element of movement

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Who are the characters?

“The Royals” Alonso – The King of Naples and Ferdinand’s father. He regrets helping Antonio usurp Prospero.

Ferdinand – The Prince of Naples, shipwrecked on the island. He falls in love with Miranda.

Sebastian – Alonso’s brother, who is persuaded by Antonio to try and kill Alonso.

Gonzalo – A kind and loyal nobleman who helped Prospero and Miranda escape Milan.

Antonio – Prospero’s brother, who betrayed him and took his title as Duke of Milan.

Who are the characters?

“The Islanders” Prospero – The rightful Duke of Milan, now living on a remote island.. A powerful magician who controls the island’s spirits and

seeks

revenge

on

those

who

wronged him.

Miranda – Prospero’s daughter, who has lived on the island since childhood. She is kind, innocent, and falls in love with Ferdinand.

Ariel – A spirit who serves Prospero. Ariel is mischievous,

magical,

and

longs

for

freedom.

Caliban – The son of the witch Sycorax and the island’s original inhabitant. He resents Prospero’s rule and plots against him.

Who are the characters?

“The comedic relief” Stephano – A drunken butler who plots with Caliban to overthrow Prospero.

Trinculo – A jester, who also gets involved in the foolish rebellion with Stephano and Caliban.

What makes this a CalRep Show?

“Frantic/Tempest at CalRep follows the same storyline of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. In this version you will notice some challenges to traditional gender norms.

Other variations include using minimal dialogue and amplifying physical movement, in keeping with devised physical theater’s characteristics. This allows the story of The Tempest to be told through both Shakespeare’s text, and movement that was created using primarily the Frantic Assembly Building Blocks Method. “

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Frantic/Tempest x CALREP

Click here to view the full Interview

“I hope that audiences feel this production is inviting, even if you don’t think you like Shakespeare or you haven’t heard or read Shakespeare. That when you come see Frantic/Tempest it will introduce you to this epic Shakesperean world that is very exciting, relatable, and easy to access for all different kinds of audience members. ” -Ezra LeBank Director, Frantic/ Tempest CalRep’s Artistic Director Theater Arts Department Head Chair

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Student Discussion Questions To what extent is Caliban a victim of imperialism. Does Shakespeare present him as a sympathetic figure or a dangerous “other”?

Is Prospero’s magic a symbol of divine justice, or is it simply another tool for manipulation and control?

How does Shakespeare use the theme of revenge to critique or reinforce the idea of justice?

Does The Tempest reinforce traditional gender roles? Give examples. How did Frantic Tempest compare in this regard?

In what ways does The Tempest function as a metaphor for theater?

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Student Discussion Questions How does the play explore the conflict between civilization and nature. Especially with regard to Prospero’s treatment of Caliban.

Is the play’s ending truly a resolution? Does it leave lingering questions about Prospero’s power and morality?

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Parking Information The Box Office for the University Theatre has an entrance around the North side of the building. Follow Signage from E8 to get there. The walkway next to the loading dock is the fastest way to reach the University Theatre’s entrance.

E8 parking is available Mon-Fri after 5:30pm, on weekends parking is available all day.

To park at E8, one must have a CSULB Parking pass, purchase timed parking, or purchase a daily pass for $15.

More Parking Information

CSULB Campus Map

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University Theater (U.T) Location Frantic/Tempest will be taking place in the University Theater. The entrance is closer to the Cinematic Arts building, along the side path of the Theater Building. There will be signage from Parking Lot E8 directing people over.

We encourage you to refer to the “Walk with me to the U.T” video below, CSULB Interactive Campus Map (linked below), or by contacting our BoxOffice@CSULB.edu for more information.

Walk with me to the U.T. More Parking Information

CSULB Campus Map

Thank you for supporting Live Theater!

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Theater Ettiquette Reminders WE DO NOTE OPERATE LIKE A MOVIE THEATER. YOU ARE A PART OF THE SHOW. YOUR THEATER ETIQUETTE IS A PART OF THE SHOW, EVERYONE IS ABLE TO SEE EVERYONE. LATE SEATING IS NOT PERMITTED: Patrons are not guaranteed seats unless they are on time and have a purchased ticket in hand. The show will start without you, no matter the reason you are late! As house managers we are trained to operate as a professional theater, and professional theaters do not allow late seating.

Walk-up Tickets and Waitlists: Any remaining tickets will be sold at the production's box office, which opens one hour before curtain. Sold-out performances begin waitlists one hour before curtain. You must arrive in person to put your name on a waitlist.

Food & Drink are not allowed in the theater: Patrons will be asked to finish their consumables before entering the theater.

Skateboards & Scooters are not allowed in the theater.

House Managers can direct you to a place for you us to hold your items during the show.

Content Advisory This production utilizes strobe and flashing lights. If you have light sensitivity, please contact COTA-CALREP@CSULB.edu for more information.

More info on Frantic/ Tempest

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Class Passport Find Clues, Help PerLac, Win Prizes

All students, faculty, and staff are invited to play CalRep’s NEWEST Scavenger Hunt Visit the Game Website

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Land Acknowledgement CSULB is located on the sacred site of Puvungna. We acknowledge that we are on the land of the Tongva/Gabrieleño and the Acjachemen/Juaneño Nations who have lived and continue to live here.

We recognize the Tongva and Acjachemen Nations and their spiritual connection as the first stewards and the traditional caretakers of this land.

We thank them for their strength, perserverance, and resistance. We pay our respects to the Ancestors, Elders, and our relatives, past, present, and emerging.

To learn how you can help, please visit: www.csulb.edu/puvungna

About CALREP CALREP is the producing arm of the Theatre Arts Department at CSULB. Over the past three decades, CALREP has a history of creating new work, devised theatre and adaptations of classics.

Meet the CalRep Team

Visit our Website

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Department Chair Ezra LeBank

CALREP TEAM

MFA Theatre Management Faculty Jeff Janisheski Megan Wanlass Managing Director Meg Imamoto Production Manager Ashley Boehne Ehlers Technical Director Robert Waltz Master Carpenter Mitchell Domingo Scenic Student Assistants Saul Diaz Bledar Gashi Ellie Montenegro Tori Morones Costume Shop Manager Lalena Hutton Costume Shop Cutter/Draper Denise Barry Costume Shop Student Assistants Vivian Mullvihill Saba Nabaeighahroudi Kelsi Haverkroft

Lighting Student Assistants (cont.)

Elizabeth Sanchez Noah Stein Aiden Vice Austin Willis-Roberts Mike Zavala Media & Sound Engineer David Goyette Box Office Manager Randall Belyea Box Office Student Assistants Ashley Holguin Vincent Monastrial William Runnels Charli Southall Katie Tran Fiscal and Personnel Analyst Katie Speer Safety Technical Supervisor Tony Martinez Theatre Arts Graduate Advisor Josh Nathan Theatre Arts Academic Advisor Adriane Howze Videographer Nick Neira

Master Electrician Jasmine Flores

Production Photographer Cynthia Price

Lighting Student Assistants/Hang & Focus Crew Aaliyah Artry Mya Baldwin Saul Diaz Kaison Edwards Sonia Giansiracusa Julia Juarez Kaitlyn Madrid Melissa Mejia-Rodriguez Deshawn Mims Quinn O'Kelly Sean Ryder

Graduate General Manager Claire Pearson Management Graduate Students Amanda Anderson Perla Barajas Paula Eagleman Drew Olvey Chaunsa Oyos Claire Pearson Bob Williamson

Faculty Gayle Baizer Chris Bange Jody Berger Trevor Biship-Gillespie Ashley Boehne Ehlers Josh Breeding Collin Bressie Erin Caron Andrea Caban Martha Carter Adrian Centeno Bonnie Dolan Alana Dietze Ramy Electreby Sharna Fabiano Michelle Gibbs Rebecca Guzzi Rich Hutchman Jeff Janisheski Nipper Knapp Ezra LeBank Bradley Lock Patricia Loughrey Emily MacDonald Josh Nathan Hugh O'Gorman Robert Prior Jen Richardson Tyler Seiple Medina Senghore Anna Steers Tom Trudgeon Sarah Underwood Megan Wanlass David Ward Jessica Woollen

Frantic/Tempest DIRECTED BY Ezra LeBank In collaboration with Frantic Assembly World Premiere at CSU Long Beach CalRep 2025

Any video and/or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.