CAODS played host to the fairy frolics of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” this half term. Trinity Theatre was transformed superbly, by some creative set design from “The Wednesday Crew” as listed in the programme, into a lush pastoral world of flowers and vines.

Director John Kirk clearly has a good eye for a visual aesthetic that was also matched in a variety of costumes. The play was set in the 40’s, and the country theming of the clothes combined with some lovely singing and Morris dancing from the chorus, young and old, really evoked a bygone era. One closer to a magic realm of fairies then the one we live in today. 

The main plot of this much performed and celebrated show, revolves around four lovers leaving the city of Athens behind to run away into a forest of wonder. Each of the actors bravely tackled the long poetic speeches with gusto and aplomb. There was the emotive Hermia played by Hannah Brewer and the ever determined Kate Chandler playing Helena. Fighting for their attention was Jack Brading as Demetrius and Charlie Bonner as Lysander. There was a warm chemistry between the four that was felt by the audience. The infamous scene where they are blinded by the juice of “This flowers force in stirring love” was played with intent, and with a quicker pace away from first night nerves, would really resound with an audience.

The Mechanicals, a group of amateur actors aiming to put on a play for King Theseus and Queen Hippolyta had some solid comic moments well executed. Julian Gabriel Clarke had sniggering from the crowd just by saying “Eeyore!” as their character Bottom was transformed into a donkey, hooves tail and all! Becky Langridge’s Quince, the director was suitably exasperated by her cast’s attempts at drama and a particular highlight was Karl Whitmore and his hairy attempts to play Thisbe as they finally got to debut their show.

Oberon and Titania were in the capable hands of Steve Taverner and Sarah Kellett. Both were ably assisted by the standout Puck, played with energy and klutziness by Tom Worsley and a green long wig giving Wurzel Gummage energy. Martyn Stanley as Theseus gave a commanding performance alongside his onstage wife Hippolyta played by Carolyn Ferguson.

The farcical nature of the plot and huge shifts in tone are difficult to stage. The cast however adapted to it well despite the odd slower paced scenes in Act 2. They were confident in their delivery of the text, and the fact the production had a huge age and generation spread really gave the show a warm family feeling. The lighting bathed the cast in warm greens and blues and old English folk songs punctuated the action to give a fun earthy feel to the show. More touches like that really helped to give the show a distinct look.

Well done to the creative team involved. Puck’s ending speech hoping the audience enjoyed the play was almost not needed as the woops at the end highlighted how much people were enchanted.

Reviewed by Olly Fry