Trine University Theatre Presents ‘Midsummer Jersey’

ANGOLA, IN – Trine University Theatre is set to stage ‘Midsummer Jersey,’ a comedic adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ at the Ryan Concert Hall of the T. Furth Center for Performing Arts in late March. The production features a cast of 20 students, some playing double roles, and aims to provide a fast-paced and entertaining theatrical experience.

A Latest Jersey Setting for a Classic Tale

Director Lou Ann Homan, a Trine University lecturer, selected ‘Midsummer Jersey’ by Ken Ludwig for its unique setting and comedic elements. The play reimagines Shakespeare’s beloved comedy in a New Jersey locale, retaining the original’s core themes of love, fairies, and weddings. Homan noted the production will offer an evening of fast-paced entertainment, prioritizing a positive experience for the student performers.

Behind the Scenes

Lydia Roop, the university’s marketing and communication coordinator, is assisting Homan with the production. Conner Upton, a software engineering major, serves as the stage manager, coordinating rehearsals around students’ academic and extracurricular commitments – including fraternities, skating, track, and music. The cast is currently “off book,” meaning actors are performing without scripts, a traditionally challenging week in the rehearsal process.

Shakespearean Roots

Homan delved into the history of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ discovering connections to earlier works. Characters like Theseus and Hippolyta originated in Chaucer’s ‘Canterbury Tales,’ while Oberon and Puck were figures in medieval folklore. The play was likely written between 1594 and 1596, a period when Shakespeare was also working on comedies like ‘The Comedy of Errors’ and ‘The Two Gentlemen of Verona,’ as well as the tragedy ‘Romeo and Juliet.’ Some scholars believe the original production may have been performed at a wedding, given the play’s three wedding celebrations.

A Focus on Student Experience

Homan emphasized that her primary goals are to ensure the students have a positive experience and to produce a quality display. She regularly interacts with the cast during rehearsals, offering encouragement and even treats.

Performance Details

‘Midsummer Jersey’ will be performed at the Ryan Concert Hall of the T. Furth Center for Performing Arts at the end of March. Tickets are not yet available but will be sold at trine.edu/furthtickets or at the door.