The Shakespearean classic returns to Theatre Calgary’s travelling stage this July
Love looks not with the eyes, but from the comfort of your picnic blanket or lawn chair, your favourite drink in hand and the notorious vernacular of the Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare is the air.
This summer, you and your loved ones can catch Theatre Calgary’s rendition of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream as part of the annual Shakespeare on the Go program from July 14 to August 6.
A Midsummer’s Night Dream takes place on a midsummer’s night on the eve of a wedding between the Duke of Athens, Theseus, and the Queen of the Amazons, Hippolyta, but it’s the entangling of four young Athenians in love, a squabbling fairy King and Queen of the forest and the larking of Puck proves that true love really doesn’t run smoothly.
The opening show takes place at Inglewood’s Jack Long Park at 7:00 p.m. July 14, with recurring shows at Jack Long every Friday at 7 p.m. Heritage Park will host the travelling show in the front plaza Tuesdays at 5 p.m. and Saturdays at 7 p.m. Brookfield Residential, Qualico and other community associations will also host the show, but they are subject to change so to best keep track of the shows and if they’re coming to your community, check Theatre Calgary’s website (theatrecalgary.com).
This year’s show was adapted by Anna Cummer, taking inspiration from vaudeville. Director Kelli Fox, is a reliable, trusted hand for this production says Theatre Calgary’s Artistic Director, Stafford Arima.
“Kelli is not only a superb performer but an exquisite director. She is an artist with an acute understanding of language, and that understanding of language gives her a deep understanding of Shakespeare’s prose which gives way for beautiful accessibility to his poetry for the audience.”
Seven emerging artists will take the stage for this production. While the actors weren’t confirmed at the time of writing, Chris Loach of Theatre Calgary said that they are looking for those who aren’t mid-program at a post-secondary institution and can’t have more than six years of experience in theatre after finishing school. He described their ideal artist as hungry, up-and-coming talent who want a platform to showcase their abilities on a renowned stage as well as bolster Calgary’s growing arts culture.
Let this show steal you awhile when it premieres on July 14.
Go Like a Pro
l/How to best enjoy Shakespeare on the Go
Ready for the show? Here’s how to prepare yourself before showtime starts for the best experience.
First, make sure you know which show you’ll be going to. This production will be hosted at Jake Long Park, Heritage Park’s front plaza, and several community associations around the city on different days, so prepare for the travel. Be aware that these locations may also change, so keep an eye on Theatre Calgary’s page for updates.
Pack your choice of snacks and drinks because there won’t be any concessions on-site. Additionally, mind the heat this summer and have a can of bug spray, sunscreen and hats ready for you and your loved ones attending.
When you’re there and are ready to set up for the show, make sure you’re as comfortable as you can be with your favourite lawn chairs or picnic blankets. Depending on where you’re watching, be considerate of the shade and set yourself up in a comfortable spot. The only thing worse than a bad sunburn is having your head turned into that of a donkey’s (sorry, Bottom).
Most importantly, be mindful of those around you and make sure you’re not obstructing anyone’s view especially if you are in a lawnchair.
Enjoy the show!
