“Theatre contains a multitude of worlds, each requiring a unique set of creative and esoteric skills. These separate spheres of expertise combine and fuse, as a string of notes become a melody, and melodies intertwine to create a symphony. In this way, theater creates a synergy – a result greater than the sum of its parts – a harmonious, living production,” (Shenan Arts, 2018).
Once again, no words can begin to express the deep gratitude I feel to the many individuals who have come together to make this work possible. It is a privilege to collaborate with a team of such talented and dedicated professionals and students who share a passion for the stage. Our common goal is that for a few hours you will escape reality, and transcend to an alternate world where life is enchanting, obstacles seem impossible, and life is both heartbreaking and heroic.
Shakespeare’s plays have stood the test of time because they touch the truest parts of human nature. His themes and characters are able to span cultures, centuries, and political climates. Through his words and the structure of his text, Shakespeare speaks to us from his grave. We have “listened” to the text with curiosity, wonder and patience in an effort to bring relevance to his words and messages within this well-worn, well loved script. We are hopeful that our efforts with this work will make Shakespeare more approachable to our audiences.
While Shakespeare wrote A Midsummer Night’s Dream toward the end of the 16th century, it still speaks to the stunning complexity of the 21st Century - one with its own rules, expectations, social barriers, and codes of behavior. The rich tension between the rigidity of the ordered human world and the chaotic freedom of the forest world form the backbone of the visual world of our production. The forest serves as a portal to another world, and the “dream” animates our relationship with the unknown - the world as it is when we are asleep. The forest world embodies both the mysteries that our imagination makes possible, as well as the freedom we seek from the constraints of the human world, taunting us to run from the laws and regulations of our lives, escape exile, partake in mischief, resort to animalistic instincts, pursue the appetites of the heart. The nature of chaotic, all-consuming love is explored in each “world” of Midsummer and remind us that “...the course of true love never did run smooth.”
To our talented student actors, technicians, and musicians - your enthusiasm and commitment to your craft inspire and amaze me! Much appreciation to the parents of all of our performers for encouraging and supporting your students to pursue their passions. I am so fortunate to have had the lifelong support of family to pursue mine!
We invite you to enjoy tonight’s performance with and open mind, joyful heart, and imaginative spirit.
And finally, in Puck’s words, “If we shadows have offended, think but this, and all is mended. That you have but slumbered here, while these visions did appear...And so good night unto you all.”
-Nicole LaBella
