A Midsummer Night's Dream – I was flabbergasted.

On the top of my list of shows to go and watch, Shakespeare never makes it. Instead, I prefer contemporary theatre that transports the audience somewhere else, or shines a light on stories that need to be heard. However, I was intrigued when in my inbox landed an invitation: it was for a production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ by Flabbergast Theatre at Wilton’s Music Hall and I’m so glad I took up the offer.

As a side note, I received two complementary tickets from Madeline at Ginger Bread Agency in order to review this performance.

Not since my secondary school days have I encountered Shakespeare, but I’m sure that the Bard would approve of this production, making his play accessible and crucially engaging to modern audiences, and from the moment you step into the venue, the performance has begun.

Now, a sub-note on the immersive elements of this production, and speaking as someone who had just finished a very long day at work, the last thing I wanted was to interact with actors around and about the already intimate music hall. That said, it grew on me, as the barrier between actor and audience was lowered, I relaxed further into the production.

The language is true to the original, though at some points due to a lack of microphones (which I actually appreciated as it added to the intimacy) and some of the cast members’ stronger accents can be difficult to understand. But fortunately for the audience, each and every member of the cast delivered a performance that meant even if lines were sometimes lost in the theatre, you were still able to follow along with brilliant choreography and staging – particularly useful for me as a layperson when it comes to Shakespeare.

Amongst the unhinged plot you come to expect with this play, we’re treated to a plethora of talent, from members of a company that is so at ease with and trusting of each other that seamless transitions surprise and delight. And despite my fatigue, I was completely enthralled throughout. Yes, the show is chaotic and all over the place, but that’s the joy of a good production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, isn’t it?

I should apologies for the tardiness of my review on this one, as the day job has taken priority, and you’ve probably missed the opportunity to see this production. But fear not, for I’m sure that this company will be back on the stage in the not too distant future.