Final Weekend for 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream' at Brewery Arts Center
The final performances of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Brewery Arts Center take place this weekend.
Produced by the Proscenium Players Inc, this production puts a twist on Shakespeare’s original tale by moving it many centuries and continents away to present day in Athens Georgia.
“The contemporary version is basically the same as doing it as a period piece but with updated sets and costumes,” Actor Michon Chandler said. “It's nice doing it present day as the costumes and mannerisms can be modern which allows the audience to understand the material better.”
While set in contemporary times, the story and the themes are the same: four young star-crossed lovers, controlling parents, semi-successful spells cast by mischievous but well-intentioned fairies, and other natural and supernatural goings-on. Plus, love, jealousy, and the power of imagination combined with mistaken identities, comedic mishaps, and unexpected twists and turns.
“We are doing the Shakespearean script, so that hasn't changed,” Lynette Brown who plays two characters in the production, said. "Shakespeare's plays are always relevant, so I definitely think this fits.”
She added both of her characters are very relatable.
“Titania, the queen of the fairies, is very passionate and cares deeply about her current interests, while Hippolyta, a newly married African Queen, is trying to make the best of her new situation in life. I think many of us can relate to both characters.’
Chandler says a Midsummer Night’s Dream is a wonderful introduction to Shakespeare.
“I think the way in which it is performed, will have people think differently about Shakespeare, that is not just flowery language, but an entertaining story that everyone can enjoy,” she said. “We tend to learn about Shakespeare through either Romeo and Juliet or Hamlet, both are a bit heavy. This comedy is ridiculously bawdy, entertaining and somewhat more coherent in their absurdity.”
Chandler plays Bottom, who provides plenty of comic relief.
Final performances are May 19 and 20 at 7:00 P.M. and May 21 at 2:00 P.M. Tickets are $25.00 for general admission and $20.00 for members, seniors and groups. They are available at www.carsontheater.com