In a season filled with sugarplum fairies, holiday pageants and twinkling lights, Mountain Community Theater is offering something a little different: a midsummer dream dropped squarely into midwinter.
The company’s holiday production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” running Nov. 21 – Dec. 14 at Park Hall in Ben Lomond, leans into that juxtaposition — a warm, enchanted summer night wrapped inside the chill of the holidays. Director Stephen Phillipps said the contrast is intentional.
“It will truly be a midsummer dream in midwinter in Ben Lomond,” Phillipps said. “Every director has their own viewpoint … Nobody has used the metaphor we’re using. And we are celebrating the holidays.”
Shakespeare’s classic comedy opens in the Athenian court, where four young lovers face an impossible tangle of affection, family demands and threats of punishment. Fleeing into the woods, they encounter a group of amateur actors rehearsing a play for the Duke’s wedding — and an entire realm of fairies who meddle with both groups. Mistaken identities, magical interference and mismatched romances collide as human and fairy worlds blur, setting the stage for one of Shakespeare’s most beloved comedic finales.
Phillipps said the production honors the timeless magic of the play while offering surprises of its own. Cast members say the winter setting only deepens its themes.
Actor Ian Dyer, who plays Starveling and understudies Bottom, said the show fits the season more naturally than people might think.
“Shakespeare is something people come to celebrate,” Dyer said. “It’s about big ideas — love, cheer, hilarity, acting, theater … If you’re looking for a great holiday experience, this is it.”
Jackson Wolff, who play Snug, said the show’s joy is what audiences need most.
“It’s full of joy and love, and during these dark times we need all the love and joy we can get,” he said.
For Ana Bogren (Peaseblossom), the play’s enduring charm — and this production’s unexpected choices — are reason enough to attend.
“People should see the show because it’s a classic … It’s super fun, and it’s about love and connection,” she said. “Stephen’s vision brings a unique element and some surprises.”
David Leach, who plays Theseus and Oberon, called it a chance for families to share something special amid the holidays.
“It’s a magical performance of one of the greatest plays ever done,” Leach said, calling it an ideal way to celebrate with friends and family.
The production features longtime MCT performers alongside first-timers, including Scott Kravitz, Sarah Mitchler, Ash Hardman, Fey Triona, Zed Warner, Rebecca Haley Clark, Diana Torres-García, Jennifer Stanford, Cory Nash, Nancy Martin-Kern, Dimitry Lamendella, Kevin Karplus, Paul Carlos Justiniano, Gurjeet Bajari, Naomi Bowers and Henry Anima.
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Performances are Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 14 at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. at Park Hall, 9400 Mill St., Ben Lomond. Tickets are $25 for seniors and students and $20 for all others. More information is available at mctshows.org.