I have seen the famous Shakesperean comedy “Midsummer Night’s Dream” numerous times, several of these in the wonderful Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot. Every time I have seen this play it has been delivered with a different view, a different perspective – in a different way. Although the story remains the same, the journey and the players take on various routes. I have also seen the amateur touring group the Handlebards do this very play, at this very theatre, before in 2023 but knew by seeing this innovative and unpredictable group, that the journey this evening would be unique and refreshing. And it was!!
The cast consisted of four females, which in itself was a unique stance in theatre. The cast intermingled with the audience (which disappointingly was only around 60 people on this the opening night on a Tuesday) playing as though to a full house.
The epic tale of four young lovers who find themselves lost in a magical forest, (where the Fairy King and Queen are fighting for possession of a changeling boy) and a group of amateur actors are rehearsing a play. Humans and fairies collide, and hilarity unfolds. This story of infatuation, desire, trickery and bewilderment was told, as always from this company, in a fast- paced, comical, enthusiastic way, with wit, great skill and dynamic personalities. Although, through the first act, it was somewhat confusing with the constant costume changes and multi-personality roles (which escalated as the play continued!) the cast kept every audience member enthralled and entertained as the story unfolded.
There was a group of school children in the audience, and they absolutely adored it, clapping and laughing hysterically at all the characters and their antics and crème de la crème – the water gun that menacingly was sprayed on them and other children from time to time – which left them (and the adults) in fits of laughter.
The play was ‘very well done’ a phrase we heard a lot through the evening. All four cast members Elle Dillon-Reams (Titania), Bronte Tadman (Bottom), Rose Wardlow (Hermania) and Meredith Lewis (Helena), were extremely talented and their passion shone throughout. They embraced the audience – bringing one man on stage as Apolita dressed in a tutu, who joined in admirably.
This epic tale of how a potion (delivered in their own distinctive style via a water pistol) could install desire on the most unsuspecting victims (even an ass!) was told in a quick, hysterical and ‘full-on’ way – that left the audience energised and mesmerised.
If you enjoy an evening of fun, frolics and Shakespeare -this is the play for you – give it a whirl!
Midsummer Night’s Madness!
Reviewer Jan Mellor
Reviewed: 16th July 2024
North West End UK Rating: