James River Theatre Company Brings A Modern Twist To “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

The James River Theatre Company (JRTC) is putting on one of Shakespeare’s most well-known works, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”— in the middle of winter. 

La Vida Coffee + Market is hosting JRTC’s rendition until Feb. 27. 

The story of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” consists of a series of romantic squabbles. Lovers wishing to be with one character are torn apart, and bachelors strive for the attention of damsels while dismissing the advances of others. 

It all comes to a head when the purely fantastical meshes with reality. 

The use of humor makes lighter the play’s seemingly gruesome situation.  

The cast of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” has been consistently performing since the show’s opening Feb. 11. Swapping out traditional Shakespearian garb for a nontraditional, Mardi Gras-inspired wardrobe, this rendition of Shakespeare’s classic play feels eclectic. 

The live performances take place on a circular stage with the audience only inches from the action.   

Actors transform into multiple characters throughout the production’s two-hour runtime. 

“One of the beautiful things about Midsummer is our ability to play not only two or three roles (which is rare) but also to create a world with individual and separate character relationships,” Maggie Quick, who plays Peter Quince, Titania and Hippolyta, said.

While “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” typically requires more than 20 actors to fill its roles, the JRTC accomplishes it with only eight actors.

The show’s premiere was rife with excitement and energy as the cast had been          preparing for weeks for its big debut. One of the lead actresses, Paige Abbatacola — a Liberty alumna who studied musical theatre — felt grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the project.

“Opening night was a little chaotic, but all-in-all very fun. I feel very lucky to be a part of this show,” Abbatacola said. “It’s truly an ensemble of a cast with how talented  everyone is.”   

Coffee and refreshments, along with merchandise for the show, can be found around the room for those wishing to take a memento with them after watching the show. 

More information about the show can be found on JRTC’s website at jamesrivertheatre.com. 

Engel is a feature reporter.

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