Cast for” A Midsummer Night’s Dream” include: Angel Lozada as Lysander; Laura Plyler as Hermia; Kira Lace Hawkins as Helena; and Alex Dorf as Demetrius.

By JULIE PARKE
Development Director, Wagon Wheel

WARSAW — “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” William Shakespeare’s most popular comedy, was written around 1595. This delightful comedy portrays the adventures of four young lovers, a duke and duchess, a group of amateur actors and the woodland fairies who interfere in their lives … to farcical ends. According to the Bard, “The play’s the thing” … and it opens at the Wagon Wheel on July 29.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” takes place in a mythical Athens and an enchanted forest. The delightful cast of characters includes a handsome fairy king, a misguided parent, star-crossed lovers, a weaver who is transformed into a half-donkey, wood sprites and elves. David Lepor designed the whimsical and magical set, which holds a number of surprises for the audience.

In this, the theatre’s 60th season, Wagon Wheel veterans Ben Dicke and Andy Robinson bring audiences a comedic masterpiece. Dicke and Robinson love, “the unique way Shakespeare married the human world and the fairy world, created this seamless universe with all these fantastic characters,” and they agree, “the comedy is textbook, and it all holds up — it’s all funny.” The co-directors, who have collaborated frequently over their careers, are inspired by the way “art seeks to explain human experience.” You won’t want to miss this rare chance to enjoy a timeless, world-renowned Shakespearean favorite.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” saw a revival of sorts beginning in the 1840s, and its popularity continued into the 20th century with a staging at the Hollywood Bowl. The success of this production led to the 1935 film version featuring Olivia de Havilland, James Cagney and a young Mickey Rooney as Puck. The play continues to be widely performed around the world, and it’s no wonder — Shakespeare’s take on love is modern and relevant. But, as Puck knows, falling in love can make fools of us all.

Tickets are on sale right now at the Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts or may be purchased online. The cost of admission is $32 for adults, $24 for seniors, $18 for students and $14 for children up to age 12. Call the box office at (574) 267-8041 with any questions.

The show premieres July 29 and runs through Aug. 8. Times vary based on day. Presented by Parkview Health Systems.