A Midsummer Night's Dream

ODT, Old Fire Station Theatre

Oxford Dance Theatre have created a colourful and energetic production of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' at the Old Fire Station Theatre, just in time for May Day and its associated mixture of mischief and ancient lore. Director Jackie Keirs has brought ODT's production right up to date, however, with an original electroacoustic soundtrack, a minimalist set and, most memorably, her ingenious linking of the play's themes and characters with contemporary issues and personalities. This fusion of fantasy and reality makes the production as entertaining as it is enchanting.

Such an intimate venue is ideal for this play, with its whimsical and light-hearted plot, and the cast use the small but open performance area at the Old Fire Station imaginatively to keep the drama in constant motion. And while the production does not reveal any brand new interpretation of the play, thought-provoking concepts are nonetheless explored: the contrast of comedy and fantasy through costume and character, the use of music and sound rather than scenery to create and enhance atmosphere, and the actors' skilful imitations of celebrities all contributed fresh new ideas. Certainly the efforts of Simon Garfield as Puck, who created on stage Tony Blair, Woody Allen and Eminem amongst others, should be commended.

Much of the production calls for high comedy, resulting in confident performances from Richard Darbourne as Lysander, Abbey Wright as Hermia and Fred Pargeter as Bottom. Some slightly weaker contributions from other performers do not detract from the comic talents and exuberance of these lead characters. Similarly, occasionally flat performances from the attendant fairies only serve to enhance the impact of Mike Tweddle and Suzanne Hutchinson as a lordly Oberon and a voluptuous Titania. The production is a delight, suitable for all ages and tastes with its sparkling cast and interpretation.

Olivia Rowland 02/05/01