The Studio Theatre Club's interpretation of the Bard's popular play, directed by the very talented Stephen Briggs, is thoroughly enjoyable. The Unicorn Theatre's unique space is used very effectively with a vivacious mix of song,dance, special effects and even some magic tricks!

The costumes are remarkable, ranging from the traditional to steampunk via public school boy. Unsurprisingly, The "play within the play" resulted in the most laughs of the evening with a particularly hilarious performances from Matt Kirk as Bottom, ably supported by the other mechanicals. However, there were many other comic moments with Sreya Rao's Irish accented mimicking of Brian Macken being one of the highlights.

I would recommend this production of The Dream very highly. The vivacious and committed performances cannot fail to lighten the spirits. Thanks to the very clear diction and enunciation of almost all the performers along with the intimate space of the Unicorn theatre, this production will appeal to even the most hardened Shakespeare-phobe. And there's even a very well executed Bollywood moment at the end!

Omar 28 Jan 2011

Summertime is being brought to Abingdon five months early through a magical, imaginative and witty production of Shakespeare’s classic A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The production runs until Saturday at the Unicorn Theatre and is well worth a visit for the building alone. Although the play is already one of the most accessible of Shakespeare’s works with the universal themes of love, magic and amateur dramatics running throughout, the Studio Theatre Club really bring the work to life in a dynamic way through the use of movement, physical comedy, live music, pyrotechnics and vivid costumes.

Sreya Rao as Puck, with her not-so-merry band of fairy friends, had great animation, dancing and singing in a charming way. The Mechanicals also had a good presence and “the play within the play” was easily the funniest part of the play; there were some genuine laugh-out-loud moments as Peter Hubbard spoke as only a lady should to Matthew Kirk’s Bottom through a crack in a wall that looked suspiciously like a rude gesture. The four lovers were also played in a comic, interactive and endearing way. The attention to detail was probably the biggest selling point even though there were obviously some first night nerves interfering with the choreography. It was even forgivable when the obviously female fairies were referred to as ‘monsieur’ as it came from an ass’s head.

The live original music provided light relief and audible cues for the fairies’ antics. It was a bit of a shame that the musicians were hidden behind a black screen and were not given credit in the curtain call. The costumes were used in a metaphorical way and particular mention should go to the fairies’ costumes, the Lover’s costumes (or lack of!) and the Mechanicals’ vivid masks. Overall a pretty cheap and entertaining night out!

loulacarr 27 Jan 2011

I read that the Studio Theatre Club decided to stage A Midsummer Night's Dream in January not only to avoid competing with other 'summer' productions but also because the weather is *not* good when the plays starts - the argument between Oberon & Titania has brought cold, rain and fog. Good point.

They stage the play on the Unicorn Theatre's mock-Globe stage, which gives the show an added interest - but their costuming is a fun combination of Edwardian tennis on the lawn, Last of the Summer Wine and Steampunk/Goth!

It all works remarkably well - with enthusiastic and energetic performances from a strong cast, some really nice, moody *live* music and effective use of lights - and smoke!

Whether you're a fan of Shakespeare or you've never tried him before, it's well worth making the effort to see this production - at the Unicorn this week.

Alonso 27 Jan 2011

Melt away your winter chills with this fun and frivolous enactment. Expertly cast, and passionately performed, the live music, fantastic costumes, and hilarity make for a thoroughly enjoyable night. The dichotomy of traditional language with modern steampunk costumes was a unique treat.

The real steal of the show however was 'Bottom'. A man quite clearly comfortable in his own skin, a natural comic; played this part perfectly.

If you like intimate, cosy, whimsical and highly entertaining - I urge you to go and see this. You won't be disappointed.

Anya 27 Jan 2011

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