Student Performers Shine in A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Student Performers Shine in A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Portsmouth Abbey School student performers transported audiences into the magical world of Shakespeare with a fresh and dynamic production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The play, staged as theater-in-the-round, combined the classical text with contemporary flair, featuring a live rock band playing both current and classic rock hits to complement the action.

Directed by Jay Bragan, the production engaged the audience in the lively chaos of love, magic, and mischief. The intimate setup brought the audience closer to the action, making them feel part of the enchanted forest where the story unfolds.

The performances were energetic and endlessly entertaining, with standout roles including Whitaker Williams ’26 as the lovesick Helena, Ainsley Moe ’27 as Hermia, Lorenzo Munda ’27 as Lysander, and Hans Yuan ’25 as Demetrius. Julius Epke ’25 was captivating as the mischievous Puck, and Alana Collins ’25 and Andrew He ’27 mesmerized as the feuding fairy royalty, Titania and Oberon. Adding humor and heart, J.J. Servidea ’27 brought the character of Bottom to new heights with scene-stealing charm.

Adding a contemporary twist, the production featured the Abbey’s own “Modern Band” led by Tim Wang ’26 on drums, Noah Ierfino ’25 on lead guitar, Brian Lim ’27 on bass, Steven Li ’25 on keyboard, and vocalists Alaina Zhang’25 and Sophia Wehrs ’27. Their vibrant performances gave Shakespeare’s timeless themes of love, jealousy, and transformation an exciting modern edge.

The production’s success also owed much to the creative team, including costume designers Janna Pederson and Alana Frutkoff, technical director Lance Ruggiero, and choreographer Sam Di Palma. The stunning visuals and choreography perfectly complemented the musical energy and Shakespearean verse. This Dream was a splendid presentation of Shakespeare’s work that showcased the creativity and talent of Portsmouth Abbey’s students and staff.