University Theatre is set to be taken over by the mischievous fairies and headstrong Greek lovers from Shakespeare's most popular comedy, "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Opening Thursday at 7:30 p.m., the play follows the exploits of two pairs of mismatched lovers who cross paths with a troupe of actors and fairies, causing confusion and comedy.
Although the play has been done many times before, the theatre department assures a less traditional version. Senior theater design technology major Tyler Miller said this play will be unlike all the others.
"Let's just say there is some unexpected music that is really driving the show," said Miller, the show's assistant makeup and hair designer. "Really, it's just a completely different take on the old story that a lot of people know."
To keep things fresh, director Peter Zapp rearranged some dialogue and gave the show's visuals a technological twist. He also gave new life and power to Puck, a mischevious elf who time travels in this updated version.
Puck, played by senior musical theatre major Sarah White, returns to ancient Greece from a trip to the 20th century where he acquired a taste for a certain band that kicked off the British invasion.
In addition to the traditional flower juice in the eyes, Puck uses his new passion for ‘60s British rock to further enchant and confuse the lovers.
"Puck will channel a song into somebody and they will be able to hear it and they will get confused by that," White said. "It kind of intensifies their emotions and it makes the play even more off-balance and confusing."
In Shakespeare's original play, Puck is following orders when he enchants the lovers.
"In this approach, Puck knows exactly what he's doing at all times and is just trying to screw with everything just for fun," White said.
Twenty-first century technology is incorporated through the character of Titania the fairy queen, played by Hannah Drake. Some of her scenes were filmed in advance and are projected onto the stage.
The physical sets are minimalist to accommodate the scenery projected throughout the play. Costumes, hair and makeup are the opposite: rich and detailed, especially when it comes to the fairies, Miller said.
"They're really wild and I would say very sexually driven characters and their hair and makeup reflect that," he said.
Miller describes Titania as ethereal and "Victoria's Secret-esque" with very sultry makeup.
"The hair and makeup are fabulous," White said. "I love the fairy costumes. They're flowy and intricate, their hair is teased and matted with leaves in it."
White said students should not be intimidated because it is a Shakespeare play.
"[The music] will help you understand Shakespeare," White said. "There's a lot of movement and tech elements that will make it accessible. There's really hilarious slapstick stuff going on. It's just something you can come to and laugh."
WHEN: Nov. 10-12, 15-19 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 13 at 2:30 p.m.
WHERE: University Theatre
HOW MUCH: $7 for students, $12 for faculty and staff, $13 for general public
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