I experienced my own midsummer night’s dream during a showing of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Japanese Garden on the grounds of the VA West Los Angeles Healthcare Center campus. Shakespeare in the park is something I had only heard of – and only ever wondered if I would actually have the opportunity to experience. Well, experience I did indeed. Thanks to my friend Tee O Connell of That’s IT Mommy, we went to the limited Westside engagement of Shakespeare under the stars, amongst the Eucalyptus trees and within the setting LA sun. It was spectacular setting for a spectacular play.
Puck, looking thoughtful
Presented by the Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles in conjunction with the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and directed by Kenn Sabberton, William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was joyous, engaging and hilarious. As I was unaware of the plot, I was completely enthralled and engrossed at every turn and twist of the plot; of course laughing along the way.
Cast of Characters
Puck – Wyatt Fenner
Demetrius – Jason Frank
Helena – Jenna Johnson
Peter Quince – Brian Joseph
Titania – Tracey A. Leigh
Bottom – Michael Manuel
Hermia – Marcella Lentz-Pope
Oberon – Paul Perri
Lysander – Desean Terry
The Japanese Garden is a perfectly quiet place
Tee and I actually had the awesome luck of being seated next to Desean Terry’s (Lysander) mom. Her infections laughter and jolly personality made the romantic comedy even more funny. She was so proud of her boy and it was infectious as I found myself watching him as if he were my son and I felt full of pride myself!
I highly suggest you bring along an al fresco dinner to enjoy before the show. We saw many groupings of people enjoying the fresh air, beautiful gardens and picnicking. It was quite beautiful to see (but to be honest, I was starving and they all made me hungry. I almost joined them and ate all their food to be honest). The gates open at 6:30pm, the show starts at 8pm.
Performances Now Through Sunday July 28th – Tuesday through Sunday Evenings at 8pm
Complimentary tickets are available to active military personnel, veterans, their care-givers and family members (while supplies last: reservations required). Please call SCLA at (213) 481-2273
Tickets start at $25; premium seating available for “Midsummer Night’s Dream” are available online at Shakespearecenter.org or by calling (213) 481-2273
For more information, you can log on to The Shakespeare Center.
They do Shakespeare in the park in my town and I’ve been meaning to check it out… Fun way to spend a summer night 😉