"Could be the most joyously affirmative Shakespeare production I've ever seen." Metro
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
During the pandemic shutdown, the National Theatre Live filmed productions have been suspended. This has been a great loss to the faithful fans that came to the Manning Entertainment Centre regularly to watch these brilliant films on our big screen. The series has been re-branded a little, and past films have been made available free of charge to be streamed on your preferred device. Each film is released with a limited time frame for viewing, and this past week "A Midsummer Night's Dream" has been available to watch. We've had a link on our facebook page, but I wanted to mention it in today's Curtain Call, as time is running out to see this beautiful, critically acclaimed production. It's available only until tomorrow, so grasp the opportunity now.
This exquisite version stars Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones) in the roles of both Titania and Hippolyta. A feuding fairy King and Queen of the forest cross paths with four runaway lovers and a troupe of actors trying to rehearse a play. As their dispute grows, the magical royal couple meddle with mortal lives leading to love triangles, mistaken identities and transformations... with hilarious, but dark consequences. Directed by Nicholas Hytner, this production of A Midsummer Night's Dream builds on the success of his immersive staging of Julius Caesar (filmed live in 2018). The theatre becomes a forest - a dream world of flying fairies, contagious fogs and moonlight revels, surrounded by a roving audience following the action on foot.
The Observer gave it a glowing review, remarking, "Five stars might not be enough." The Daily Telegraph also gave 5 stars in its review saying, "Deserves to be talked about for years to come." The critics and audience alike fell completely in love with this fresh and vibrant interpretation of one of Shakespeare's most beloved comedies.
You can catch this gem online by heading to National Theatre's YouTube channel (just google "National Theatre at Home: A Midsummer Night's Dream"). It's available to be streamed for another day and a half, so don't delay. While you're on the National Theatre at Home YouTube site, check out other wonderful full length plays that are scheduled to be streamed over the next few weeks. It's a treasure trove!