The performance uses only spoken Shakespearean language from the original text of Shakespeare’s play. However, McVety, who comments that the directing experience has been “simultaneously exhilarating and terrifying,” has not shied away from manipulating a masterpiece into a performance that is both relevant and entertaining for modern, adventurous audiences. McVety anticipates that many of her changes to the original play will irritate some of the Bard’s more classical devotees but continues to state that this was her actual intention.
“[A ‘die-hard’ is] someone who reveres Shakespeare as this brilliant poet who’s not to be messed with,” McVety said. “I hope Midsummer makes Shakespeare ‘die hards’ a little uncomfortable, because if [they] are uncomfortable, then that might mean everyone else will enjoy it that much more.”
In the show, which has a manageable run-time of 80 minutes, traditionally mythical beings become relatable characters that are driven by their own agency in a contemporary context.
“An audience can expect to actually get Shakespeare for once,” McVety predicted. “If everything I’ve tried to do is a success, the audience will understand, relate to and thoroughly enjoy watching Shakespeare. All of the characters in ‘Midsummer’ possess a lot more agency than the characters of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ do, and I think that makes the whole thing a lot more interesting to watch.”
The production boasts a tightly knit cast of actors, perfect due to the ensemble nature of the story. Adam Barton ’11 as Bottom, Zach Cherry ’10 as Puck and Liz Carbone ’12, Michelle Escobar ’12, Forrest Hudes ’12 and Elias Johansson-Miller ’12 as the lovers, explore the development of inter-personal dynamics which, according to McVety, are reminiscent of those in teen movies of the late 90’s. Upon entering this world that combines Shakespearian theatricality with modern pop culture, audiences can expect to encounter deliciously entertaining moments of romance, drunkenness, sex and even a few contagious “sing-alongs.”
“Midsummer” performances will be from Thursday, Nov. 12 to Saturday, Nov. 14 at 8 p.m. in Holden Theater. Tickets are free, but reservations are recommended.