Midsummer Night's dream
Subject: Quicktake - "A Midsummer Nights' Dream" by Wm.Shakespeare
Date: Sunday, Feb 4, 10:07 PM
Quicktake on A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS' DREAM
One of the Bard's most produced comedies, "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is almost actor and concept proof. Even the ART's aerial version had its moments, thanks to a strong group of rude mechanicals. Director Daniel Elihu Kramer's approach has had some less than intriguing publicity concerning the gender-switching between Paula Plum and Timothy John Smith. Plum plays Hippolyta and Oberon while Smith plays Theseus and Titania. The conceit works not because of insight but because of the skill of these principals, but an impressive ensemble of local Shakespeareans and fast paced direction.
The remaining six actors double their way through the action. Robert Pemberton is a stentorious Bottom assaying "Pyramus" and a powerful Egeus. Shelley Bolman is Lysander, in love with Egeus' daughter Hermia, and Peter Quince, the author "Pyramus and Theseus." Angie Jepson is petite Hermia, claimed by Risher Reddick's Demetrius, who also does Francis Flute, who of course plays "Thisbe." Jepson is a cute "Lion" as Snug the Joiner. Elizabeth Hayes is taller Helena, desperately in love with Demetrius, also plays Snout the tinker aka "Wall." Finally Ben Lambert is lithe Puck, as well as Starveling ("Moonshine"), and Philostrate. The four young lovers become Titania's fairies. Very basic costumes facilitate these character changes on a bare set, covered with red flowers, which might suggest field of poppies from Oz.
"A Midsummer Nights' Dream" by Wm.Shakespeare, Feb. 2 - Mar.3
Boston Theatre Works at BCA Plaza
539 Tremont, (617) 933 - 8600
BTW
posted by will at 10:09 PM
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