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| Photo Credit: Winnipesaukee Playhouse |
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, one of
Shakespeare’s most popular comedies and now playing on the Winnipesaukee
Playhouse stage, blends romance and magic with a twist of relevant social commentary
on gender and sexuality. Director Timothy L’Ecuyer guided the cast into
creating a production that breathed new life into scenes created a few hundred
years ago. In doing so, it allowed the audience to more deeply connect to the
characters and to further their understanding of how others in our lives can
shape our identity and view of humanity. With material that can easily be
misconstrued or turned satirical, this well-connected nine person cast delved down
to the core of the story and their characters, to present with heartfelt
honesty, a play about chance, the intensity of love, identity and
humanity.
While
the cast overall, should be commended on their work in this production, there
were a few that stood out among the rest. Firstly, is Will Champion’s portrayal
of mischievous Puck. His red contacts, though devilish, did not add much to his
embodiment of the character that was already exemplified by his physicality,
facial expressions and devious chuckling. His portrayal of Puck was one of the
best I have seen. Rebecca Tucker as Lysandra, love interest to Hermia played by
Katrina Michaels, was both strong and caring. The connection and relationship
between Lysandra and Hermia was believable and nicely portrayed by both Tucker
and Michaels. John-Michael Breen delivered a beautifully truthful portrayal of Helena;
whose love interest Demetrius is promised to Hermia. Encompassing a range of
emotions, Breen’s Helena is relatable to anyone who has known love. As she is
running across the stage in her high heels chasing love, we’re there rooting
her on. Nicholas Wilder was undeniably comical as Bottom and was a clear
audience favorite. Rounding out the cast are Richard Brundage, Versee Damien,
Kevin Killavey and Molly Pietz Walsh.
The
simple set, designed by Andrew Stuart, featured two towers with slides, steps
and ladders allowing the performers to fully utilize the various levels
available to them. The staging by Director L’ Ecuyer compelled the actors to
use every bit of the intimate theatre space; both on stage and off. The lighting design by Matthew Guminski
included beautifully lit hanging circular plants and a swirling, colorful
backdrop that added to the enchanted forest atmosphere.
As
with all opening nights there were a few technical difficulties and a few
flubbed lines, but overall this production was highly enjoyable. One major
highlight was during the mechanicals’ play towards the end of the production.
The performers delivered the scene with spot on timing and physical comedy that
left the audience unable to control their laughter.
This
production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream
will make you laugh, but will also make you think. It plays at the Winnipesaukee
Playhouse until July 16th with performances Mondays through
Saturdays at 7:30pm and Matinees at 2pm on July 7th & 11th.
Tickets range from $18-$31. For additional information and tickets visit
winnipesaukeeplayhouse.org
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