EXTON, PA — Mischievous fairies, tangled romances and one very confident amateur actor will take over Eagleview Town Center this September when SALT Performing Arts brings Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream outdoors for a free weekend of live theater.
The Chester County theater company will stage the comedy Sept. 25 and 26 at Eagleview, inviting audiences to bring a picnic and settle in beneath the open sky for a roughly two-hour production. No tickets or reservations are required.
The play follows four young lovers whose romantic troubles become even more complicated after they wander into a forest inhabited by fairies. Their story collides with that of a group of amateur actors — including the famously theatrical Nick Bottom — as Shakespeare mixes romance, magic and mistaken identities into one of his best-known comedies.
“Looking for a fun, free night out with the family? Join us for an outdoor production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Eagleview Town Center,” SALT President and Artistic Director Lauren McComas stated. “This classic comedy follows four confused lovers and a troupe of actors into a magical forest ruled by mischievous fairies. It’s funny, fast-paced, and perfect for all ages. Pack a picnic and join us for the fun!”
Ryan Hagan and Ally Hagan are co-directing the production, with McComas serving as producer and casting director. John Williams is the music director and composer.
The cast features Isaiah Butler as Oberon and Theseus, Christine Joe as Titania and Hippolyta, and Miriam Walton as Puck. Victoria Anne plays Hermia, Jordan Awe is Lysander, Emily Rader portrays Helena and Daniel McDevitt plays Demetrius.
Bo Sayre takes on the comic role of Nick Bottom. The ensemble also includes Bonnie Morrison, Sarah Hayes, Blake Griffith, Adam Shoffner, Shamus Halloran, Ciara Kelley, Kasey Kelly and Theresa Forcellini.
Behind the scenes, Caroline Alba is handling costume, hair and makeup design; Robbie Merow is responsible for set, lighting and sound design; Sarah Riley is props master; and Drew Kalkiewicz is stage manager.
“We’re thrilled to partner with SALT again to bring a live, open-air production of one of Shakespeare’s most beloved works to the Chester County community,” Hankin Group CEO Bob Hankin stated. “Events like these are what makes Eagleview such a vibrant and unique community that residents, tenants, and visitors enjoy year-round.”
The performances will also give theatergoers an opportunity to help neighbors facing food insecurity. As part of SALT’s 10-year partnership with the Chester County Food Bank, the organization will collect food donations at every performance. Attendees who wish to contribute are asked not to bring donations in glass containers.
Event Details
- What: SALT Performing Arts presents A Midsummer Night’s Dream
- When: Friday, Sept. 25 at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 26 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Where: Eagleview Town Center, 565 Wellington Square, Exton, PA
- Cost/Tickets: Free; no tickets or reservations required
- More Info: https://www.saltpa.com/midsummer
The production is part of SALT Performing Arts’ broader mission to make community theater accessible while involving performers and participants of different ages and backgrounds. The nonprofit also offers theater camps, year-round programs and other community events.
More information about Eagleview Town Center is available at https://www.eagleviewtowncenter.com.
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