‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ delights at Classic Theatre of Maryland

Enchanting Performances Bring Shakespeare's Classic to Life

The Classic Theatre of Maryland's production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" is a captivating and visually stunning interpretation of Shakespeare's beloved comedy. Directed by the talented duo of Donald Hicken and Sally Boyett, this production promises a delightful and magical evening for audiences.

Immerse Yourself in the Whimsical World of Shakespeare's Masterpiece

Commanding Performances from a Talented Ensemble

The production boasts a remarkable ensemble cast, each member delivering a standout performance. As Theseus, Benjamin Hoover seamlessly blends love and impatience, while as Oberon, he commands the stage with imperial authority, issuing orders to Titania (Jacey Schult) and the fairies. Jacey Schult's Hippolyta exudes a combination of love and nervous energy, subtly adjusting her dress at the start of the play. Her portrayal of Titania is infused with passion, as she eloquently speaks of the natural world and humanity's encroachment upon it, wrapping her arms around Bottom (John Pruessner) in a loving embrace.The mischievous Puck is brought to life by Juliette Charles, who delights in the chaos she creates, racing around the stage and gathering the humans, while her final speech is a quietly moving moment. As Theseus' servant Philostrate, Juliette Charles presents the options for the plays the couple will witness, offering insightful commentary on the Rude Mechanicals' offering.

Captivating Fairies and Passionate Lovers

The fairies Peaseblossom and Mustardseed, played by Mackenzie Koehne and Sara Evelina Davis, respectively, bring a graceful and enchanting presence to the stage, dancing with elegance. Delaney Jackson's Hermia is fiercely loyal to Lysander (Jesse Kodama), a passion that turns to comic anger when she confronts her rival, Helena (Allison Meyer). Jesse Kodama's Lysander is a portrait of passionate love, declaring his undying affection for Hermia before shaking her off and turning his attention to Helena. Cyrus Mooney's Demetrius is single-minded in his pursuit of Hermia, angrily rejecting Helena, before ultimately falling for her.Allison Meyer's Helena is a desperate and jealous lover, anguished by Demetrius' rejection, only to find herself the object of both Lysander's and Demetrius' affections, leading to her angry wails at what she believes is their mockery.

The Rude Mechanicals' Hilarious Antics

The Rude Mechanicals, led by the patient and gentle Quince of Brian Davis, provide a delightful comedic counterpoint to the romantic entanglements. John Pruessner's Bottom is a comic tour de force, eagerly attempting to play all the roles and finding solutions to nonexistent problems. His transformation by Puck is extraordinary, and his comic ignorance of it is hilarious.Evan Leone's Flute delivers a comically high-pitched Thisbe, throwing himself onto Bottom's body in grief, while Jack Venton's Snout delivers the Wall's lines in a delightfully flat iambic pentameter, engaging in humorous stage business with his costume. David Polgar's Snug throws himself wholeheartedly into the role of the Lion, crawling on all fours and roaring at the guests, while Dexter Hamlett's Starveling brings a weary resignation to the Man in the Moon, constantly interrupted in his attempts to deliver his lines.

Visually Stunning and Enchanting Production Elements

The production's design elements seamlessly transport the audience into the magical world of "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Props and Set Designer Salydon Boyken fills the stage with lush greenery, vines, and flowers, creating a verdant and enchanting backdrop. The fairies use cleverly placed bushes to lure Lysander and Demetrius towards each other, adding to the sense of enchantment.Costume Designer Sally Boyett and Wig Designer Tommy Malek have crafted outfits that clearly identify each character, with the human women in long, floral dresses and the human men in jackets and vests. Titania and Oberon are resplendent in green gowns and cloaks, while Peaseblossom and Mustardseed wear tights, tunics, and horns, with lights wrapped around them. Puck's costume, a fur shirt covered in leaves and lights, adds to the character's otherworldly appearance.Lighting Designer Hailey LaRoe's work is crucial in establishing the fantasy atmosphere, bathing the stage in various colored lights whenever magic is used. Sound Designer Sally Boyett's ethereal music in several scenes further enhances the magical ambiance.Co-Directors Donald Hicken and Sally Boyett, who also serves as the choreographer, keep the actors in constant motion, whether it's the duels between Lysander and Demetrius or the comic deaths of Pyramus and Thisbe. The fairies' ballet-like dances are a delight to behold, and the several dances by the cast are high-energy and captivating.With only a week left in its run, this production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the Classic Theatre of Maryland is a must-see event that will transport audiences into the enchanting world of Shakespeare's timeless classic.