York Theatre Royal – until Saturday 13th April 2024
Reviewed by Michelle Richardson
3***
Presented by the Everyman Theatre Company, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, is currently playing at the York Theatre Royal. On a cold and wet Tuesday evening, I set off to experience the enchantment of Shakespeare’s timeless classic.
The play follows the absolutely bonkers story, full of sub-plots and many different characters, played by a fairly small cast. It’s a tale of four young lovers, unrequited love, a mischievous group of fairies and a reluctant group of amateur actors. Set in the mystical realm of Athens, where comedy and chaos collide.
The cast brought their own energy and interpretation to each of the characters they portrayed. Leading the cast as the much-loved character of Bottom, is inimitable clown Tweedy. His depiction was slightly different from the norm, very slapstick, full of physical comedy, it was just like going to see the circus and watching the clowns entertaining in the ring. He makes a wonderful ass, courtesy of the playful Puck (Jeremy Stockwell).
Centring around the soon to be marriage of Theseus (Troy Alexander) and Hippolyta (Natalie Winsor), we meet the lovers, Hermia (Nadia Shash), Helena (Laura Noble), Lysander (Oliver Brooks) and Demetrius (Thomas Nelstrop), who have complicated relationships, which only increase with the manipulation of fairies. They each played their role with passion and humour. I especially enjoyed watching Brooks and Shash, with their outlandish expressions and mannerisms, I found them both pretty hilarious.
The play within the play, a creation of a group of amateur actors, bring a sense of lightness and absurdity to the story. They stumble through rehearsals and the final performance, such a comical experience. Noble is truly outstanding in her role as the stroppy Flute, flouncing about. This was my standout performance on the night, she had the whole audience in stiches.
Of course, no production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, would be complete without the mischievous Fairy King (Alexander), his Queen (Winsor) and their band of meddlesome fairies, flittering about on stage. Their costumes shimmered, sparkling away under the lighting, bringing a sense of magic and enchantment to the show.
This is probably my favourite Shakespearean play, I enjoy the madness. I must admit that I got a bit lost at times during the show and was confused to what was happening, but was soon steered back on track, luckily.
The use of music and dance brings a magical ambience to the stage, perfect for the whimsical nature of this play. This comedy can be quite confusing, but the whole cast gelled well together and worked so hard in all their roles, ensuring an enjoyable evening at the theatre.