Shakespeare & Company, Lenox, MA
August 1, 2023 - September 10, 2023
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| The Cast of "Midsummer" |
Athenians mix it up with the forest fairies in this raucous romp that features magical meddling, romantic tangles, and a play within a play for good measure. One of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies, "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" has been described by scholars as carnivalesque: pushing the plot forward through humor and chaos.
S&Co's Artistic Director Allyn Burrows also takes on the role of "Midsummer's" director. Burrows has been associated in significant management, acting, and backstage work for decades. Burrows has acted throughout the US, won gthe IRNE Award, acted Off-Broadway, on television and in movies.
Associate Director Nicole Ricciardi rounds out the directing team, and the cast of 12 includes actors making their Shakespeare & Company debut, as well as long-held veterans of the Company.
Elizabeth Aspenlieder is a familiar name at Shakespeare & Company, having appeared in more than 40 productions -- Shakespearean and dramatic and comedic straight plays. In addition to her award-winning acting skills, she also directs, and excels at voiceover work.
Sheila Bandyopadhyay is a multi-hyphenate theater artist who, after 18 years in NY, is delighted to be marking her first year as Shakespeare & Company’s Director of the Center of Actor Training. Besides her talents onstage, she is also a director.
Nigel Gore is one of S&Co's "regulars", having appeared in countless plays; both Shakespearean and otherwise. He has received the Elliot Norton Award, Outstanding Actor at Public Theatre Boston, has performed Off-Broadway, and on the USA and World Tour of "Women of Will".
Michael F. Toomey is a neurodivergent performer and theater creator. He is the Artistic Director of The Humanist Project based in Brooklyn and founding member of Split Knuckle Theatre, which devises new works that have toured from Bangkok to Buenos Aires. His S& Co. roles are nearly countless.
