We chat all things ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ with director: Rebecca Landale
- Emma Lewis
- Dec 1, 2015
- 2 min read
What were the main themes you had in mind when proposing the play?
I focussed on the dystopian nature within the play, and highlighted the darker elements connoted within the text. I used these themes by juxtaposing the darkness of the outside world with the brightness of the forest to represent that within the forest, love, laughter and comedy is found.
Have you changed anything specific within the performance?
No, I wanted to stick with Shakespeare’s script in order to make the themes and setting I have create more of an impact.
Which character was the hardest to cast?
Puck – As soon as Molly auditioned I knew she was right for the role, but prior to auditions I was concerned due to the entrancing cheekiness that the character requires in order to carry the play.
What are your favourite warm up exercises?
I usually opt for a game called ‘Big Booty’ as this is a concentration game with volume and movement to get the cast energised and to let loose, it also warms up the vocal chords and gets everyone to be a bit silly. I also like to introduce full body stretches as it is super important to give the characters an opportunity to limber up and relax into their bodies to prepare for the physicality within the play.
What are the challenging elements within the construction of the play?
The set is very complex, for example the lighting within the forest and the contrast of this between the beginning scenes to the end. This is vital to the concept of the play as it provides context for the rest of the performance. The right chemistry between the lovers is also crucial - but luckily we seem to be onto a winner there.
Why did you choose Llanover as the venue for the play?
We wanted to present a subversive play for people to connect with the emotiveness of the performance so we did not want it to be on a raised stage. I wanted to introduce an element of breaking down the fourth wall and Llanover makes this possible. The spacious stage also allows dynamic movement which is present within the play.
Come and see A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Llanover, Cardiff between the 10th and 13th February 2016.
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