"The Tempest: A Magical Farewell in Central Park"

The Public Theater's musical adaptation of Shakespeare's "The Tempest" closes the Delacorte Theater in Central Park before an 18-month renovation. The production, part of the Public Works series, features pop melodies by Benjamin Velez and nonprofessional actors performing alongside professionals. The adaptation emphasizes the theme of goodbyes, with Renée Elise Goldsberry playing a female Prospero. While the first half effectively translates Shakespeare to musical theater, the rushed second half lacks emotional depth and the rich language of the original. Despite its flaws, Public Works' engagement with the community creates a communitarian charm that is sorely missed in today's world.