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Review: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (July 2005)
What mysterious power does a highly-improbable plot about fairies and bumpkins have to transform a threatening evening into one of real magic?
Frankly, after 33 years of covering BATS open-air productions, the prospect of sitting ina damp deckchair in manor Gardens with the imminent risk of getting a good soaking did not appeal. The “Did you have to come on opening night?” welcome from Bexhill Amateur Theatrical Society friends did nothing to add to the allure. This was Monday and Sunday’s dree rehearsal had been rained-off part way through. The BATS felt unready and for the opening 15 minutes their worst fears were realised.
But A Midsummer Night’s Dream has a timeless charm. And director Julia Dance is determinedly going for romance, humour, and - of course - magic. Threatening leaded skies were soon forgotten - helped by the fact the rain held off. The Dream, as interpreted by a cast which skillfully blends experience with youthful enthusiasm and much genuine talent, had me in its spell as they swiftly settled to their task.
The romantic chaos caused by Puck’s inaccurate love-potion application is exploited adroitly and to the full. The wonderful humour of the Rude Mechanicals and their crude play-within-a-play is true delight. This is a production in which the cast’s joy in taking part is infectious.
Full credit must go to Clare Sayers, Emily Morgan, Danielle Leggatt and Janine Hare for the maturity and expression these talented young players demonstrate as the crossed lovers Hermia, Helena, Lysander and Demetrius. It is a joy to see them develop their roles so engagingly.
But they have strong competition in the sub-plot. Anne Hughes sets the standard for the Mechanicals with a portrayal of Bottom which is fun-filled throughout. With Eric Stevens “directing” as Quince, John Simmonds as Snug, Tamsyn Webb as Flute, Julia Dance doubling as Snout and Hilary Webb as Starveling the comedy element is in safe hands.
Mike and JoJo Turnbull are well-cast as Oberon and Titania with Hannah Turnbull maintaining family standards as the mischevious by myopic Puck.
Confound the weather, whatever the forecast tonight and tomorrow go - go prepared for the British summer to do its worst but also go prepared to be enchanted.
- John Dowling, Bexhill Observer, 29/7/05
Review reproduced by permission
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