Shakespeare classic coming to Art House

Shakespeare’s classic comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, is reawakened in a breathless new production from Bell Shakespeare at The Art House on June 4.

It’s a decadently chaotic drama with all its magic, mirth and mayhem when a handful of star-crossed lovers enter the enchanting realm of some mischievous fairies.

One of The Bard’s best-loved comedies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream was written early in Shakespeare’s career, about the same time as Romeo and Juliet.

While the play is one of love, laughter and magic, it also explores darker themes of jealousy, family conflict and fractured relationships.

Fans of Bell Shakespeare may recall the 2021 version of the production was halted during the pandemic, so this new run is particularly special to company artistic director Peter Evans.

“I’m delighted we’re able to give this production a second chance after we sadly had to cancel many of the dates in 2021,” Evans said.

“Our cast and crew went through quarantine but only made it to the Northern Territory and Queensland due to border closures and lockdowns elsewhere, so we’re focusing on the states and territories we missed out on to give audiences an opportunity to see it.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream is very special to me, and whether you are revisiting an old friend in this play or are brand new to Shakespeare, it is a play to treasure.”

Mirroring themes of illusion and subversion within A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Evans’ new take focuses on the play within the play, in this highly physical production with eight actors playing multiple parts.

The result is a fast-paced spectacle that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Acclaimed British/Australian actor Richard Pyros, who recently appeared in hit Hulu TV series The Great, will star as Oberon, alongside Māori actor Matu Ngaropo as Bottom, known for his recent role as George Washington in the Australian version of the Broadway sensation Hamilton.

They join the previously announced cast of Ahunim Abebe, who makes her mainstage theatre debut as Hermia, Isabel Burton (Helena), Mike Howlett (Demetrius), Ella Prince (Puck), Imogen Sage (Titania/Hippolyta/Quince) and Laurence Young (Lysander).

The creative team includes designer Teresa Negroponte, lighting designer Benjamin Cisterne, composer and sound designer Max Lyandvert, and movement director Nigel Poulton.