Midsummer Madness

By: Yasmeen Meek '18 and Jimmy Diamondidis '18

With the opening day of A Midsummer Night's Dream just around the corner, it will be the first time in twenty years that The Water Street Players present one of Shakespeare's classics. This show also marks Severn's first outdoor production, which adds a new and exciting element to the performance. As Jane Huang '18 stated, "Performing outside and in multiple locations, in a way, breaks the fourth wall. I think it's really interesting to see how the audience follows the storyline, adding a level of intimacy between the audience and the performers." Director Ron Giddings, who first envisioned taking this production outdoors, reflected, "The amphitheater has provided so many challenges and opportunities for performance outside. From the beginning, it's been a lot of fun working on all of the pieces of this show. Shakespeare's never been so much fun to rehearse."

The cast's chemistry off stage contributes to the success they find on stage. Speaking with the actors, they all seem to agree that the fun they have rehearsing the play is what truly makes it outstanding. Especially Alanna Sokoloff  '16: "This year, I have found we are closer than ever. I can honestly say some of my favorite people are in the cast and I think that translates really well to the stage." This fall, The Water Street Players welcome newcomers Jared Reilly '19, Madeline Iazzetta '19, Quinn Roes '19, Kendall Jacobsen '19, and Charlie Olmert '17. When Charlie was asked about his decision to officially become a thespian, he said, "Whilst on vacation in late August, I got a text asking if I wanted to be in the play. Going a bit out of my comfort zone, I said sure, and came out to auditions. It was the best decision of my life. Walking about my house, my parents are constantly being bombarded by my outbursts of 'Odors, man, odors!'"

The cast and crew of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" have had a fantastic time working together to put on a hilarious and memorable show for the audience. The Thursday and Friday shows are sold out, but go online today to get your tickets for Saturday! Hot beverages and snacks will be provided, but be sure to bring blankets as the majority of the performance will take place outside. Enjoy the show!