A cast of 26 students and alumni opened the doors of Theatre 21 on Nov. 1 at 8 p.m. to portray their version of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”
The romantic comedy written by Shakespeare in the 1590s depicts the adventures of four Athenian lovers whose lives are complicated when they enter a fairyland wood ruled by the king and queen of the fairies. The play integrates themes of dreams and love and the use of audience imagination.
“It’s a dream first and foremost,” Forrest Robinson, the director of the production said. “However, it is simply about love. The audience is going to be able to experience Shakespeare’s play at Biola through Elizabethan era costumes and makeup that I think really brings the play to life.”
The five-act play will showcase mesmerizing lights, enhancing the appearance of the production.
“There are two main settings in the play: the Duke’s palace and the forest,” Missy Walker, the stage manager said.
“We use the same set for both, but the lighting is what gives it a whole new look and feel.”
Kerri Sloan, who has been in six previous Biola productions, is playing the character of Hermia and is impressed by the talent of the group.
“We have a fabulous group of people that have worked well together since the beginning, something that is not common with a cast this large in size,” Sloan said.
The play will mark the 25th anniversary of Biola’s first production in 1982. According to Walker, this is one of the largest casts in Theatre 21 history. The cast is made up from a variety of majors ranging from communication studies to journalism.
When Robinson came to Biola to teach in the communication department, he refused to direct simple playhouse theater.
“I realize that I demand a lot from the cast, but I am committed to them and want to produce something that they will be proud of,” he said. “I also want the public to be able to see the play and leave counting the days until the next one.”
The cast is prepared for their performance thanks to the strenuous work required by the director.
“They are very ready; they have all worked hard for me, despite my growls and that is what I am most proud of,” Robinson said.
There will be 10 performances at 8 p.m. from Nov. 1 to 17 with 4 p.m. matinees on Nov. 4 and 11. Ticket sales take place in front of the cafeteria. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $8 for students, faculty and alumni. Tickets will also be available at the door at a first come first serve basis.
