Geneva’s popular Shakespeare in the Park event will returns to Island Park on July 17 with a free performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” This light-hearted comedy is a classic tale of runaway lovers, featuring a play-within-a-play and fairy feuds and is suitable for all ages.
The play tells the story of four young Athenians (Hermia, Lysander, Helena and Demetrius) who run away to the forest. A mischievous fairy named Puck is sent to cast a magic love spell, but he botches the whole operation, resulting in hilarious confrontations, false professions of loveand an almost-sword fight! Deep in the forest, the fairy king and queen clash, while a group of artisans wanders along to perform a play. Comedy and confusion reign when these groups collide.
This year, Shakespeare in the Park welcomes Elgin-based Goodly Creatures to the stage. A traveling theater company, Goodly Creatures specializes in breathing new life into classic works of literature and making them accessible to all. Founder and artistic director Katrina Syrrishas starred in and directed shows for the past two decades and previously performed for many years at Shakespeare in the Park with the Midsummer Theater Troupe.
While Shakespearian language may seem elusive, the actors in this ensemble make it accessible through their command of language, movements and voice talent, Syrris noted. Shakespeare wrote for “the people, who after a hard day’s work, wanted to laugh at life’s inconsistencies and mysteries. Shakespeare is made for ALL. We make sure to keep it that way!”
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will be a vibrant performance in homage to the Renaissanceperiod, Syrris said. “You will see a stage full of romantic imagery and a combination of both Renaissance and Greek styles to reflect the era in which Shakespeare was writing.”
Seating will begin at 4:30 p.m. for the outdoor performance, and the play starts at 6 p.m.. The audience is encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and picnics. Sandwiches, water, soft drinks and ice cream will be available for purchase.
Shakespeare in the Park is presented as a free community event by the City of Geneva Cultural Arts Commission. Illinois Department of Public Health safety guidelines will be followed at this event. For more information, call 630-938-4530, visit www.genevarts.org and follow Geneva Shakespeare in the Park on Facebook: www.facebook.com/GenevaShakespeareInThePark.
— Geneva Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau