Balboa Park’s Old Globe theater says its production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” — set in industrial America circa 1942— can be viewed from home beginning Friday, Feb. 12.
Directed by Sam White, the presentation of Shakespeare’s comedy classic runs through Sunday, Feb. 28, on The Old Globe’s YouTube channel and website.
On Wednesday, the cast and creative team of The Old Globe and University of San Diego Shiley Graduate Theatre Program was announced.
“In a time of enormous challenges, the Globe’s artists have led the way with acts of great imagination and reinvention,” said Erna Finci Viterbi Artistic Director Barry Edelstein. “Our student artists have done the same.
“It’s always a privilege to showcase our actors-in-training as they encounter Shakespeare on the stage of the Globe’s arena theatre. This year, they’ve brought their talents and full hearts to Shakespeare on our virtual platforms.”
Jesse Perez, director of professional training for The Old Globe and Shiley Graduate Theatre Program, noted the program has shifted to online teaching and programing since March 2020.
“The faculty and students have successfully adjusted to a new way of theatre making,” Perez said. “The culmination of the training can be seen in this production. We are glad to have Sam White, a leader in our industry, working with our students.”
The cast features Henian Boone (Lysander), Brett Cassidy (Starveling, Crankcase), Christopher Cruz (Oberon, Theseus), Lily Davis (Quince), Jacqui Dupré (Hermia), Savannah Faye (Snug, Clutch), Komi Gbeblewou (Snout, Piston Ring), Sarah Joyce (Titania, Hippolyta), Christopher M. Ramirez (Egeus), Jocelyn Renee (Bottom), Klarissa Marie Robles (Helena), Claire Simba (Puck, Philostrate), Nathan VanAtta (Flute, Steering Wheel) and Jonathan Aaron Wilson (Demetrius).
The creative team includes Mark Holmes and James Vásquez (Directors of Photography), Robin Sanford Roberts (Scenic Design), Elisa Benzoni (Costume Design), Nate Parde (Lighting Design), Melanie Chen Cole (Sound Design), Jan Gist (Vocal Coach), Abraham Stoll (Dramaturg) and Nicole Ries (Production Stage Manager).
The Old Globe will also make the online production available to schools in the San Diego area as well as in Michigan, where director White leads Shakespeare in Detroit.