The Winter's Tale Off-Broadway Reviews

There’s pleasure, too, of a bittersweet kind, in the measured optimism that “The Winter’s Tale” offers and which so clearly appeals to Sullivan. There is real loss in this romance and pain that can’t be entirely assuaged. But the play also ...

There’s pleasure, too, of a bittersweet kind, in the measured optimism that “The Winter’s Tale” offers and which so clearly appeals to Sullivan. There is real loss in this romance and pain that can’t be entirely assuaged. But the play also insists that healing is possible, redemption practicable and that what we might mistake for supernatural influence is, in fact, the steady, patient work of humans. There’s hope here, even when hope has felt beyond the reach of sense or reason. That can feel, for a night at least, remedy enough.

The Winter’s Tale is a show full of tragedy, tyranny, and comedy, where characters get their comeuppance (but not always the ones most deserving of it). It’s a bit of a muddle, to be honest, and this production revels in its messiness in ways tha...

The Winter’s Tale is a show full of tragedy, tyranny, and comedy, where characters get their comeuppance (but not always the ones most deserving of it). It’s a bit of a muddle, to be honest, and this production revels in its messiness in ways that both captivate and frustrate.

Except for a middle section that outlasts its welcome, director Daniel Sullivan’s open-air Shakespeare in the Park revival lands without big problems. Led by Tony Award-nominated aces Raúl Esparza and Lily Rabe, the straight-up and satisfying stag...

Except for a middle section that outlasts its welcome, director Daniel Sullivan’s open-air Shakespeare in the Park revival lands without big problems. Led by Tony Award-nominated aces Raúl Esparza and Lily Rabe, the straight-up and satisfying staging has much to admire across nearly 3.5 hours: persuasive performances, meaningful visuals, and deep emotions.

What more is there to say, other than to once again praise the cast and Daniel Sullivan's complete trust in delivering us Shakespeare without reinventing him? However, as long as we are disseminating the kudos, let's give A+ marks to sound designer B...

What more is there to say, other than to once again praise the cast and Daniel Sullivan's complete trust in delivering us Shakespeare without reinventing him? However, as long as we are disseminating the kudos, let's give A+ marks to sound designer Brian Ronan and sound system designer Mike Tracey for making sure we can hear and understand every syllable and musical sound (that's Tom Kitt's contribution) that emanates from the stage of the refurbished Delacorte. Rousing cheers for everyone who had anything to do with this exceptional production!