The play was imaginatively directed by by Joe Dowling. Incredible set by Todd Rosenthal and costumes by Fabio Toblini. Incidental music by Keith Thomas. What a great group!
The principal actors were Edward O'Blenis as Theseus/Oberon, Alexandra Silber as Hippolyta/Titania, Sam Kebede as Philostrate/Puck, Tyrone Phillips as Lysander, Melissa Solodad-Pereyra as Hermia, Eric Schabla as Demetrius, and Christina Panfilio as Helena. There were all excellent!
I first saw the play in about 1950 at the Old Metropolitan Opera House on Broadway and 39th Street. It was presented by the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Sadlers-Wells Ballet (later the Royal Ballet). It starred Moira Shearer as Titania and Robert Helpman as Oberon. It was magical! I later saw it as a ballet at the New York City Ballet in Lincoln Center. At the end of this production Puck was whisked up into the flies on the last note of music. Thrilling!
Last night's performance was a dream. Beautifully acted and sung, when necessary. One of the best I have seen at Chicago Shakespeare.
