This play starts dramatically with a ship being tossed around by waves in a violent storm.
On a nearby island Miranda and her father Prospero watch the storm. She worries for the poor souls onboard.
Ariel then uses magical music to lure Ferdinand to Prospero. When Miranda first sees him she is convinced he is a spirit.
Elsewhere on the island, Caliban is collecting wood and cursing Prospero as he does so.When Trinculo, the ship's jester appears, Caliban hides under his cloak.
Prospero agrees that Ferdinand may take his daughter as his wife, but insists they must be officially married.
Ariel Disappears to magically repair the ship and fetch the crew.