from staff
A rejected marriage arrangement, a custody battle, two unrequited loves, a crew of hopeful part-time actors and devious fairies set the stage for Shakespeare’s magical comedy, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” opening Sept. 14 at Theatre Jacksonville’s Harold K. Smith Playhouse. The play is under the direction of Geoffrey Kershner and will run through Oct. 6.
In an enchanted wood invaded by lovers and simple rustics, the king and queen of the fairies pit their wits and wills against one another. Lovers fall in and out of love, husbands and wives agree to disagree, and the simple folk tie all the threads of the plot together in a mellow, joyous, and hilarious ending.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” provides an excellent introduction to Shakespeare for first-time theatre-goers, and its multiple delights continue to captivate seasoned audiences.
To make Theatre Jacksonville’s “Dream” a reality, the storytelling of guest Artistic Director Geoffrey Kershner (MFA in Directing, Florida State University) and his vibrant cast of players is complemented by the gifted design team of Audrey Wagner (Costumes), Kelly Wagoner (Sets) and Jeffrey Wagoner (Lights).
Theatre Jacksonville’s annual production of Shakespeare has a tradition of fulfilling its mission of providing opportunities for community wide involvement in theatre arts while partnering with the Duval County School system and area private schools to create an unforgettable experience for our cultural leaders of tomorrow.
Performances of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” are scheduled for Sept. 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29, Oct. 5 & 6 at 8:00 p.m., Sept. 20, 27, and Oct. 4 at 7:30 p.m. and Sept. 16, 23 and 30 at 2:30 pm. All performances will be at The Harold K. Smith Playhouse at 2032 San Marco Boulevard. Tickets are $10.00 and are general admission.
For more information or to make reservations, please call Tracy Olin at the theatre’s box office at 396-4425 or visit www.theatrejax.com.