“WE ARE SUCH STUFF AS DREAMS ARE MADE ON,” proclaims Prospero, the sorcerer. Robbed of his dukedom, he is marooned on a wild island with his daughter Miranda. After years in exile, he conjures a storm that shipwrecks his usurping brother and political enemies. A fusion of the original Shakespeare with manga visuals, this is a cutting-edge adaptation set after the energy crisis of the 21st century has plunged mankind into a second Dark Age. Those who keep technology alive are “sorcerers”. Prospero’s “magic” reveals stories of love too easily won, freedom from slavery and a royal power struggle. 

The Tempest is part of Manga Shakespeare, a series of graphic novel adaptations of William Shakespeare’s plays. Drawing inspiration from Japan and using Shakespeare’s original texts, this series – edited by Richard Appignanesi and illustrated by leading manga artists – brings to life the great Bard's words for students, Shakespeare enthusiasts and manga fans.