Lovers of English playwright William Shakespeare’s works can start rejoicing, with one of his most popular comedies bound for Newcastle this summer.
Thanks to funding from City of Newcastle’s Special Business Rate (SBR) Program, the Whale Chorus Theatre Company will launch its inaugural season of Shakespeare Under the Stars among the iconic fig trees of Pacific Park.
There, it’ll present A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 January, at 4pm and again at 7pm.
The story follows four young lovers, and a group of amateur actors, as they journey into the forest, only to have Puck the fairy turn their realities into chaos and strange dreams.
And, with music and pre-show face painting available, this all-ages event is not to be missed, according to Whale Chorus director Janie Gibson.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream is such a fun play,” she said.
“It brings out a spirit of joy and silliness in the rehearsal room.
“But, in this work, Shakespeare is also asking some very deep questions about love.
“In Midsummer, we see how love and the forces of the natural world have the power to transform; they can overcome oppressive and archaic laws, they can instil chaos and madness and, ultimately, they can make us see anew.”
Gibson has travelled the world, from Poland to the USA, studying traditions of ensemble and text-based theatre.
She’s now returned home to Newcastle to start her company and give back to the community.
“The Shakespeare Ensemble, made up of 10 local actors aged 23-62 as well as a dog, have all been training for 14 weeks in a rigorous rehearsal process, cultivating their skills in voice, ensemble work and exploring the depths of Shakespeare’s language,” Gibson.
“We’re looking forward to bringing A Midsummer Night’s Dream to life.”
Tickets are $35 (full price) or $25 (concession).
So, book now at www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au/what-s-on/all-shows or phone 4929 1977.
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