The reviewer praises this all-female production of A Midsummer Night's Dream for its thoughtful reimagining, charming performances, and clever use of text. They highlight the strong singing, inventive direction, and respect for the original script, making it a joyful and beautiful experience.
This production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by The Whole Pack Theatre Company is a delightful and thoughtful reimagining of the classic play. Set in a snowy wood and featuring an all-female cast, the show opens with a charming quarrel between Oberon and Titania, accompanied by haunting folk songs and carols. The reviewer particularly admires the strong performances, especially Meghan Louise Taylor's dual roles as Bottom and Theseus, and Jessamy James's feisty portrayal of Titania and Helena. The direction by Jessamy James is inventive and respectful of the text, with clever cuts and tinkering that enhance the humor and beauty of the play. The simple yet colorful set and the use of the audience as participants add to the overall enjoyment. The reviewer, having seen the play many times, finds this production to be one of the rare shows that brings constant pleasure and smiles.
Quick quotes
I wish very much I’d seen this thoughtful, charming touring show earlier in its run rather than at the point when it finally came to rest in London at Cockpit Theatre. Some good things, however, really are worth waiting for.
The joy of this production is that it respects the text, most of which is still there. It’s astonishing how few big cuts are required to make it fly with only six actors.
The production sits on a very simple set in the Cockpit’s square space which has — imaginatively used — entrance points on all four corners. It’s colourful, full of humour and very beautiful: one of those rare shows it which it was quite difficult not to smile with pleasure throughout.