Whippoorwill Theatre’s Young Thespians Put on Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

The following was taken from a news release from Whippoorwill Theatre:

Whippoorwill Theatre is presenting “Shakespeare 4 Kidz – 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream' ” Feb. 22-23.

Whippoorwill Theatre was developed in conjunction with the West Des Moines Parks and Recreation Activities Program and in cooperation with Tallgrass Theatre to provide a rich variety of one-act and full-length plays, full-scale musicals, Improv, and workshops for kids, teens, and their families, with an emphasis on exploring the classics and having fun.

"A Midsummer Night’s Dream" is probably William Shakespeare’s most popular comedy and has served as inspiration for countless artistic works, musical compositions, adaptations, movies, ballets, and even operas.

Whippoorwill Theatre’s version is one that was created by a British company called Shakespeare 4 Kidz, and is a perfect introduction of the play to audiences of all ages, director Sarah Hobart said in a news release.

Although the script includes many of the Bard’s most memorable lines and beautiful text, most of it uses modern language that is easily understandable to modern ears.

The cast features nearly 30 local kids, age 4-17. As is always the case in Shakespeare comedies, there is plenty of song, dance and spectacle to entertain. The songs are current and upbeat, and Whippoorwill staff are betting audiences will leave the theatre humming the tunes.

The show will be about 1 hour and 45 minutes in length, including a 15-minute intermission. It is perfect for kids, so bring the whole family. There will be concessions in the lobby during intermission, and a chance to meet the actors and get autographs after the performance.

Whippoorwill Theatre works in partnership with West Des Moines Parks and Recreation to serve kids and families throughout West Des Moines and the Des Moines metro area. Located at Rex Mathes Auditorium at 1401 Vine Street in West Des Moines, Whippoorwill Theatre provides workshops, rehearsals, and performances for kids 6-18, as well as volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage for theatrical adults.

For more information about Whippoorwill Theatre and “Shakespeare 4 Kidz – 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream,' ” contact Sarah Hobart, the director, at (515) 661-7063.

"Shakespeare 4 Kidz – A Midsummer Night’s Dream"
Performances: Feb. 22-23 – 7:30 p.m. both Friday and Saturday, and Saturday matinee at 2 p.m.
Tickets: $12 in advance online for adults, $15 at the door; $5 for kids under 12. Advance tickets may be purchased in advance online until Feb.15, or at the box office 45 minutes before each performance. >>Buy Tickets.