Through his directorial vision, Geoffrey Hyland transports the audience into a world of enchantment and comedy in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Hyland managed to preserve Shakespeare’s original language and comedic timing, making his production light-hearted and accessible to the modern-day audience.
SMF News attended a performance of A Midsummer Nights Dream on 10 October at the Oude Libertas Amphitheatre as part of the 2023 Toyota SU Woordfees.
Transporting the audience into another realm
The open air-theatre makes the perfect backdrop for the enchanting tale set in an ethereal forest where fairies and humans co-exist. The scenery created by the intricate set-design further transports the audience into the mystical realm and allows them to delve into the story alongside the characters.
Hyland’s approach to the play allows for actors to fulfil multiple roles, regardless of gender. Similar to Shakespearian times, males were cast in female roles; but Hyland takes this a step further and casts females in male roles too. Thus, ultimately blurring traditional gender roles and challenging society’s preconceived notions regarding role assignments based on gender.
In the roles of both Titania and Theseus, Roberto Kyle adds layers of complexity to the storytelling through his performance. Chi Mhende skillfully portrays both Oberon and Hippolyta, and Caleb Swanepoel adds a mischievous and lively energy to the production through his mesmerising performance as Puck.
The performances by the actors adds depth and nuance to the performance, and is a testament to their abilities to inhabit multifaceted characters.
Through the nuanced performances by the actors in A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the 2023 Toyota SU Woordfees, the audience becomes fully immersed in the complexities of love, jealousy, and desire that Shakespeare so masterfully wove into the narrative. PHOTO: Supplied/VRT Maynardville
Balancing comedy and emotional depth
One of the standout aspects of this production is the impeccable comedic timing and chemistry between the cast. The witty banter and slapstick humour are delivered with precision.
The strength of this production ultimately lies in its ability to balance the light-heartedness of the comedy with the underlying themes of love and the human condition. The director’s vision ensures that the comedy never overshadows the emotional depth of the play, resulting in a harmonious blend of laughter and introspection.
However, while the actors deliver a captivating performance, the outdated language and convoluted plotlines could be challenging for some audience members to follow, especially for those unfamiliar with Shakespeare.
Nevertheless, this production offers a rewarding and thought-provoking experience if one has an open mind and a willingness to delve into the enchanting world of Shakespeare.
- A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed at Oude Libertas Amphitheatre on 12 and 13 October at 20:00.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream is being performed at Oude Libertas Amphitheatre as part of the Toyota SU Woordfees with shows being performed between 9 and 13 October. PHOTO: Supplied/VRT Maynardville