Previews: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM at Falcon's Eye Theatre

A Midsummer Night's Dream, one of Shakespeare's most popular comedies, is gracing the Falcon’s Eye Theatre stage at Wakamatsu Farm for one weekend only. This year, Folsom Lake College’s Shakespeare offering explores the staying power of true love and the measures that we will take to get it. Director Jamie Van Camp brings his expertise to Appalachia (in lieu of Athens), where he balances comedy, romance, and a bit of magic with some Southern flair.

Most know the story of A Midsummer Night's Dream. A magical forest wars with familial duty: Hermia wants to be with Lysander, but her father, Egeus, insists she marry Demetrius. Helena is intent on having Demetrius for herself. All four flee to the woods and find themselves the unwitting victims of a lovers' quarrel between the fairy king, Oberon, and his queen, Titania. Everyone’s favorite forest sprite, Robin Goodfellow (aka Puck), serves up mischief as generously as fairy dust, and hilarious hijinks ensue.

Audiences have a lot to look forward to this year. Brilliant performances by Oakley Barnes (Hermia), Lucinda Briggs (Helena), Angela Johnston (Robin Goodfellow), Ryan Mason (Oberon), and Jazzé (a compelling and commanding Titania) complement hilarious scenes featuring Stephen Owen (Lysander) and Gregorio Rael (Demetrius). Trust me, you don’t want to miss their duel – it is physical comedy at its finest. Add in music and food trucks, and a night under the stars is the perfect outing to curb your Shakespeare cravings.

A Midsummer Night's Dream plays at Wakamatsu Farm from May 7-10. Tickets and more information may be found at falconseyetheatre.com.