Northwood High School’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a performance of magic, mayhem, and marriage.
Confusion and misunderstanding apparently exist in both the human and supernatural world. As perfect harmony quickly dissolves into unmanaged chaos, relationships disintegrate. But thanks to some quick thinking, all is well in the end.
In William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” four youths (Helena, Hermia, Lysander, and Demetrius) fall into a baffling love square at the hands of Puck, a mischievous elf. An additional side story tells the tale of the mechanicals, laboring class, who resolve to perform “Pyramus and Thisbe” for Theseus and Hippolyta’s wedding, where these two stories become one. All the while, Oberon and Titania (King and Queen of the Fairies) are having marital troubles, leading to theft and trickery. Not a dull story in the least!
Alyssa Matuchniak dons the outlandish persona of Hermia and does not hold back. Matuchniak’s overdramatic delivery, gestures, and facial expressions only further develop the character of Hermia.
Brendan Coen makes use of physical comedy in the role of Demetrius, as well as exaggerated movements, to keep the audience interested and amused.
Adrian Belmes is completely transformed and embraces the mischievous, quirky attributes of Puck. Whether at center stage or peeking out from behind the scenery, Belmes constantly remains in character, even adopting the strange mannerisms of the little elf.
Vivek Krishnan, as Bottom, and his fellow mechanicals (Amanda Picard as Quince, Sean Darley as Flute, Cullyn Doerfler as Starveling, Songia Xiao as Snout, and Alex Garber as Snug) steal the show with their superb comedic timing and ability to remain as a united group.
The characters’ eye-catching makeup, designed by Rachel Morrison and Rebekah Phillips, complete the mystical atmosphere of the entire performance.
Northwood High School’s production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” keeps the audience entertained and hopeful, as true love conquers all.
