BATS perform The Tempest

Performed in the tranquil setting of Bexhill Manor Gardens and directed by Lowry Rhodes, the cast

and crew did an excellent job bringing, what is customarily identified as the Bard's final stage piece, to life.

With a cast of sixteen talented BATS members, ably supported by six 'Dancers, Reapers, Spirits and Mariners' from East Sussex School of Performing Arts, along with outstanding costumes, make-up lighting and music, it's easy to see why these annual Open-Air performances are so popular with appreciative audiences.

The five act play, kept the cast and crew on it's toes throughout, while the audience, which included Bexhill Town Mayor Bridget George, settled back in their deckchairs to enjoy the performance, with many partaking of picnics and refreshments.

Shakespeare's story of magic and romance, with elements of tragedy and comedy, takes place on a Mediterranean island where the main character, Prospero, the exiled Duke of Milan, played Peter Bradbury, has been banished with his daughter Miranda, played by Kelly Farrier.

With such a large cast it's difficult to single out any of one of the performers from this highly entertaining production as each gave their all to their characters and are all worthy of credit.

However, Peter had a mammoth job in his role, and gave a polished and professional performance as Prospero. Hannah Hands gave an energetic interpretation of Ariel, (Prospero's magic fairy) and hats off to the young Ben Phelps for his mesmerising portrayal of the savage beast Caliban.

The only criticism of the evenings performance was the distraction of trying to hear, and concentrate, on the performances over the constant chatter of certain members of the backstage crew.

Unfortunately, thanks to the British summer weather, Wednesday's and Saturday's performances were rained off.