Gallery 7 Theatre concludes its 2018-2019 “Back to Classics” season with a modern rendition of William Shakespeare’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, opening this Friday, May 17.
On a midsummer’s night, four young Athenian lovers flee to an enchanted forest populated by sprites and fairies. When the mischievous spirit Puck mistakenly administers a magical love potion, the lovers suddenly find themselves infatuated with the wrong person.
Meanwhile, an acting troupe led by the boisterous Bottom descends on the forest to rehearse a play for the king, only to be caught up in the shenanigans as well.
This is Gallery 7’s first Shakespeare production in its 28 seasons.
“In a season featuring classics, I thought it only fitting that we include one of Shakespeare’s most popular, and most accessible, plays in the lineup,” said Ken Hildebrandt, Gallery 7 Theatre’s artistic director.
“The directing and design team have decided upon a modern take for our production.”
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Directing the production is Kate Muchmore Woo, chair of the theatre department at Trinity Western University. This is Woo’s third production for Gallery 7 Theatre, having also directed Enchanted April and last season’s hit production of The Mousetrap.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream will feature performances by artists from across the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland.
Playing the role of the young lovers are Tiani Foster, Curtis Maciborski, Autumn Mastin and Braedon Sunnes.
Taking on the roles of Oberon and Titania – king and queen of the fairy world – are Mark Kroeker and Deanne Ratzlaff. Playing the role of the mischievous Puck is Nicola Prigge, and the role of the sincere but sometimes crass Bottom is being played by Chris Taylor.
Rounding out the cast are Tamara Charman, John Dawson, Angel Duran-Heon, Lora-Lynne Frewing, Kenzie Hall, Jessica Milliken, Dylan Grace Schroeder, Cara Straforelli, Shannon Tauber, Cassie Unger and Alex Walker.
Set design is by Jeff Keirs, props design is by Charlene Crawford, costume design is by Shannon Tauber, lighting design is by Matthew Piton and sound design is by Gabe Kirkley.
Production photography is by Dianna Lewis Photography and the stage manager is Becki Cormier.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream runs May 17 and 18 and 22-25 at 7:30 p.m., with matinees on May 18 and 25 at 2 p.m. at Matsqui Centennial Auditorium, 32315 South Fraser Way.
Visit gallery7theatre.com for tickets and more information or call House of James at 604-852-3701.