By Kimberly O’Brien Young
This past weekend, Laguna Beach High School’s production of Shakespeare’s timeless tale “Midsummer Night’s Dream” opened at the Artists’ Theatre. It is a visually stunning, wondrous production to lose yourself in.
The Rustics led by Wyatt Shipp, who plays the character Bottom, provide comic relief. He reminds me of what I would imagine Will Ferrell might have been like in high school. Audiences will be awed by the stage presence of Zane Fair, in the character Oberon, who commands the space. Anya Gourley, in the role of Titania, speaks the Shakespearean dialogue with fluidity.
With dazzling talent from the high school’s dance department, the cast’s fairy troup flits off and on the stage with grace.
Director Mark Dressler calls the show, “Simply one of the greatest openings in Park Avenue Players history.” Co-director Chris Marshall says of the show, “One of the best ‘Midsummer Night’s Dreams’ I’ve ever seen or been in!”
The assessment of photographer Roark Gourley: “Stunning to shoot. Can’t wait to watch again tonight!”
The show continues Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, at 7:30 pm, with Sunday, Nov. 23, at 2:30 p.m. You don’t want to miss it and make sure to bring the kids. They will love it!
Mother Kimberly O’Brien Young’s two sons are in the cast.
Photos by Roark Gourley.
