STC Celebrates The Holidays With A Midsummer Night's Dream

Oct 16, 2012
Sidney Harmon Hall

The Shakespeare Theatre Company, recipient of the 2012 Regional Theatre Tony Award, kicks off its holiday season with William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. Director Ethan McSweeny (Much Ado About Nothing, The Merchant of Venice) takes a fresh approach to this well-loved play filled with magic and wonder. The production runs at STC's Sidney Harman Hall (610 F Street NW) from November 15—December 30, 2012.

Mismatched lovers Hermia, Lysander, Demetrius and Helena flee to the forest outside Athens, but they run into a supernatural squabble that will alter their destinies forever. Will mischievous Puck create harmony or cacophony within the forest? Will Bottom and his Mechanicals put on a successful show for the Duke? Love, magic and wonder fill the air as dreams blend with reality in this must-see Shakespeare classic.

Under McSweeny's direction, theatre, magic, ghosts and fairies become one in the ruins of an abandoned theatre. The stunning stage within a stage, intricate costumes and innovative use of props all provide a feast for the imagination.

"Between the fairies, the lovers, and the mechanicals Midsummer is a three-ring circus of a play," McSweeny said. "The challenge to the director and the company is to imagine a world in which all three rings perform equally well. We are fortunate to bring together a truly stunning group of actors assembled from all across North America for what I hope will be a funny and beautiful treat for the whole family."

A Midsummer Night's Dream is sponsored by Arlene and Robert Kogod; the Presenting Education Sponsor is Target. Additional support provided by American Airlines and British Airways.

To purchase tickets or to learn more, patrons can call the box office at 202.547.1122 or visit ShakespeareTheatre.org.