Preview: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton

Preview: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton

Prepare to be transported into a world of magic, mischief, and mayhem as Everyman Theatre Company proudly presents a spellbinding new production of William Shakespeare’s timeless comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, at MAST Mayflower Studios from Tuesday 16 to Saturday 20 April 2024.

The plot unfolds in an enchanted forest in Athens, and intertwines the romantic misadventures of four young lovers, the playful meddling of mischievous fairies, and the comedic antics of amateur actors, culminating in a magical tale of love, mistaken identity and reconciliation.

This mesmerising rendition promises to transport audiences into a world of magic, mischief, and mayhem.

In a brand-new twist, the show will feature the hilarious comedy clown, Tweedy, in the iconic role of Bottom. Tweedy, who is well-known for his fifteen year tenure at Giffords Circus, and who will be touring his own show with Underbelly later this year, is renowned for his physical comedy and slapstick prowess.

Tweedy’s unique clowning knowledge promises to infuse the production with extra hilarity, as he also takes on the role of Comedy Advisor for A Midsummer Night’s Dream, giving the classic Shakespeare play a modern facelift.

Tweedy will be joined by old friend Jeremy Stockwell (Alice’s Diner Theatre Company) in the role of Puck, with whom he previously starred in the Everyman Theatre Company’s 2019 production of Waiting For Godot. The A Midsummer Night’s Dream cast is completed by Troy Alexander (Oberon/Thesius), Natalie Winsor (Titania/Hippolyta), Oliver Brooks (Lysander/Starveling/Moth), Thomas Nelstrop (Demetrius/Snout/Cobweb), Laura Noble (Helena/Flute/Mustardseed), Nadia Shah (Hermia/Quince/Peaseblossom), Emmeline Braefield (Ensemble Fairy/Female understudy) and Ross Telfer (Ensemble Fairy/Male understudy).

Directed by Paul Milton (Waiting for Godot, Educating Rita), Creative Director at the Everyman Theatre, the production promises to be engaging for audiences of all ages, with its witty dialogue, physical comedy, and unforgettable characters.

“Our aim is to create an accessible Shakespeare show that will appeal to a present-day audience,” explains Paul. “So if you’re a great Shakespeare fan you will still get a lot of the classic text, but if you’re new to Shakespeare we want to make it as simple to understand as possible.

“Throw in Tweedy’s physical slapstick, and we think this is a really enjoyable show for everybody, especially families and students.”

Tickets for A Midsummer Night’s Dream (16 – 20 April) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.

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