A U.K. Review in [exactly] 250 Words: "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the Watermill Theatre

Harriet Wilson

• United Kingdom Theatre Critic

You don't have to be a 'Shakespeare person' to love the Watermill Theatre's current production of A Midsummer Night's Dream. In this original, energetic, and hilarious production, the Watermill Theatre has taken a play which has been performed countless times, and made it into something which feels new.

Photo: Scott Rylander

Music within the production is played deftly by the show's cast, fitting seamlessly into the narrative and adding to the play's 'magical' ambiance. A creative, dynamic set also adds to this atmosphere.

Casting Bottom and Puck as women (Victoria Blunt and Eva Feiler respectively), has really allowed for these characters to be reimagined. In fact, for me, Blunt's hilarious performance absolutely steals the show.

Sophie Stone, co-founder of Deaf & Hearing Ensemble Theatre Company, brings a new depth to the character of Hermia by her use of sign-language. This builds intimacy in Hermia's relationship with Lysander (Tyrone Huntley), and even with the audience, whilst emphasising the distance of characters such as Demetrius (Joey Hickman, also the show's musical director).

Together, the show's characters create a rich tapestry of different personalities – from the unusually timid portrayal of Puck (Feiler), to the frustrated Helena (Lillie Flynn), to Emma McDonald's playful Titania and Jamie Satterthwaite's father-like Oberon.

 A Midsummer Night's Dream is enjoyable whether or not you're a 'Bard buff'. And when better to visit the Watermill than in the sun, when you can also enjoy the theatre's beautiful grounds?

A Midsummer Night's Dream is playing at the Watermill Theatre until the 16th June.