A WILD, ROMANTIC, FUN-FILLED DREAM: “MIDSUMMER” COMES TO SPHS, NOV. 8-17

It is one of the most famous and adored plays in history - one that has inspired three operas, four musicals, at least eight film adaptations, and hundreds of paintings and songs. William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream comes to SPHS in November but forget what you know, or think you know, about it. The SPHS Drama Club’s version will be wild, fun, romantic, fast-paced, musical, funny, accessible, theatrical and joyous.

The plot is well-known: a couple escapes to the Forest of Arden to secretly wed and find a place occupied by their romantic rivals, a warring fairy king and queen, a hapless group of actors, a trouble-making sprite, powerful potions, and a donkey. Chaos ensues.

“In some ways, ours is traditional - it doesn’t take place in the 1920’s for example - but in many more ways the cast and crew have created a thrilling, inventive version that feels brand new,” said Nick Hoffa, South Pasadena High School drama director. “The jokes are timely, the pace is quick, the costumes are a riot. The creative input from the students that has flowed during rehearsals has never been higher.” 

A Midsummer Night’s Dream (directed by Nick Hoffa, with technical direction by James Jontz) will be performed five times: Nov. 8, 9,15,16 at 7:00PM with a 2PM matinee on Nov 17. Little Theater, South Pasadena High School, 1401 Fremont Ave., South Pasadena, Calif.  It is appropriate for all ages.