Carleton Players present Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale”

October 24, 2014

The Carleton Players will present William Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale” October 30 through November 2 in the Weitz Center for Creativity Theater, with performances nightly at 7:30 p.m. October 30, 31 and November 1, along with two 2 p.m. matinee performances November 1 and 2. Directed by David Wiles, Performances are free and open to the public. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online at go.carleton.tixato.com/buy/.

Written toward the end of Shakespeare’s theatrical career, “The Winter’s Tale” is a story of loss and redemption. In a fit of wild and unfounded jealousy, Leontes, the King of Sicily, convinces himself that his pregnant wife is carrying his best friend’s love child. Leontes’ jealousy turns to tyranny as the king proceeds to destroy his entire family and a lifelong friendship. Sixteen years pass, and audiences witness one of the most astonishing endings in English literature.

Originally published in 1623, “The Winter’s Tale” is sometimes grouped among Shakespeare's comedies or late romances; critics consider the play to be one of his "problem plays" because the beginning acts are filled with psychological drama while the ending acts are comedic and supply a happy ending. Famous for its two-part structure, “The Winter’s Tale” seems like two entirely different plays that are joined together at the end.

Associate professor of theater David Wiles teaches acting, voice, dramatic literature, argument and inquiry seminars—along with directing Carleton Players productions.

His acting credits include appearances at Yale Repertory Theatre, Shakespeare & Company, the Aquila Theatre Company, The Guthrie Theater, Ten Thousand Things and Park Square Theater.  His article, "Burdens of Representation: The Method and the Audience," appears in Method Acting Reconsidered. "Beyond Race and Gender: Reframing Diversity in Actor Training Programs" appears in The Politics of American Actor Training.

Wiles holds a BA in History from the University of Cincinnati and a MFA in Acting from Yale.

This event is sponsored by the Carleton College Department of Theater and Dance. For more information, including disability accommodations, call (507) 222-5567. The Weitz Center for Creativity is located at Third and College Streets in Northfield.