Romance, magic and mayhem come to the fore in a classic Shakespeare comedy where “the course of true love never did run smooth”.
Directed by Amanda Crewes at The Actors’ Hub, A Midsummer Night’s Dream – believed to have been written in the mid-1590s – is masterful piece that deals with the universal theme of love and its complications.
The plot focuses on three parallel stories: the trials and experiences of two sets of lovers camping in a magical forest, the world of the Fairy King and Queen and their elves and a group of rough craftsmen attempting to stage a production for the wedding of the Duke of Athens.
Mischievous Puck plays Cupid and warns that falling in love can make fools of us all – but will crazy, mad love win out in the end?
“It’s such a magical script,” Crewes said. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream has really stood the test of time and, in fact, is the most performed Shakespeare play.
The director said the play was the perfect work for the festive season.
“The celebration of love and life fits in so well with the festive season and its playful and energetic nature makes it a play that appeals to all generations.
“Shakespeare’s language can be a challenge yet it’s the best training ground for aspiring actors.
“He teaches us so much about text work so it’s a great tool for actors in training.”
Last year, Crewes had the opportunity to see Kenneth Branagh’s Romeo and Juliet in London’s West End – and was in awe that she could follow every word and every idea being conveyed.
“I was so intrigued as to how they were unpacking Shakespeare for audiences so well,” she said.
“Your audience isn’t speaking the language all the time so you have to ease them into it gently and do the work for them, making choices clear and the language succinct.
The language isn’t the only challenge the young actors will face in delivering this work, it’s also physically demanding.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream also places physical demands on the actors.
“The thrill of the forest and the magic that ensues leaves the characters somewhat out of breath, which is what I want to capture in this performance.
“I want to show how the events move so fast the characters seem caught up in a whirlwind of events, manipulated by the magical fairies of the forest.” Crewes said.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream plays 7pm November 28, 29, 30, December 1 and 2. Tickets are $30, $25 concession – book at www.trybooking.com/SRDS. The Actors’ Hub is at 129 Kensington Street, East Perth.
Source: Media Release, images: Oberon (Glenn Wallis) holding Puck (Chris Colley) in A Midsummer Night’s Dream
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