Drama lecturer impresses London theatre critics in Shakespeare’s The Tempest

University of Gloucestershire lecturer Kate Littlewood has earned rave reviews playing main protagonist Prospero in a vibrant and dynamic new production of The Tempest in London.

A Senior Lecturer in Drama within the University’s School of Arts, Kate’s performance as the former Duke of Milan at The Pleasance Theatre is described as “commanding and convincing” (London Theatre Reviews) and “a very classical performance” (What’s On Stage).

The Tempest – widely believed to be William Shakespeare’s final play – is the dramatic story of how the sorcerer Prospero uses magic to cause a violent storm at sea and regain his kingdom from his brother Antonio.

Kate is a director and actor specialising in Shakespeare, and a Trustee for the charity Kent Opera that works to improve the lives of marginalised and disadvantaged people through music and drama.

Kate’s theatre company, To The Elephant, has performed at the Edinburgh Festival and at various venues across London including The Rose, Bankside and the CLF Art Cafe.

David Last, Academic Subject Leader, Performing Arts and Production at the University, said: “We’re absolutely delighted, though not at all surprised, that Kate has been gaining positive coverage for her role as Prospero in the latest production of The Tempest at The Pleasance Theatre.

“Members of the University’s School of Arts team and students who have been to see the play were certainly impressed by her portrayal of one of Shakespeare’s most iconic characters.

He added: “It’s really important to provide our staff with opportunities to continue their interests and passions within the theatre, outside of their commitments to the University.

“As well as being positive activities in their own right, these outside interests enable our team to stay in touch with developments within the theatre that we can include in our teaching programmes, which ensures they’re relevant and up to date.”

Picture: Kate Littlewood as Prospero in the latest production of The Tempest at The Pleasance Theatre (photo credit: Lidia Crisafulli)