The theatre program at SHS is putting on “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by William Shakespeare. There is a production for a select group of English classes on October 25, but anyone can come to the shows on October 26, 27, and 28. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m, except the Wednesday performance, which is immediately after school.

The production is different from most Aves Theatre shows. There is a thrust style stage, which means seating is on three sides of the stage. The audience will actually sit on stage in close proximity to the actors, but the technical and set aspects will still not be compromised in quality due to the untraditional seating.

Those uninterested in Shakespeare need not be deterred. Other elements are implemented to the show to keep the production entertaining for all audiences.

“I think using a thrust was a good idea because it allows the stage to be close to the entire audience, and with a Shakespeare show it really helps the actors to convey the text more efficiently. That being said, it also presents some challenges.

“There’s basically three separate audiences you need to perform to,” said Elias Cohen, 10.

It is crucial to buy tickets as soon as possible because there is limited seating due to the non-traditional seating on stage. Tickets will be sold at lunch through the end of the week or on the theatre website. Tickets are $10 online or at lunch and $12 the night of the show. Ticket availability is not guaranteed the night of the show, though.

“The thrust really made us rethink our blocking style so that everyone can see what’s going on always,” Cohen said.
Also, audience members must arrive on time and enter with those they wish to sit with since it will be “amusement park” style seating (the audience files in and will be seated in the order they enter the theater).

“People should see the show because it’s Shakespearian and hilarious,” Cohen said.

For those who may not be able to make it to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” this weekend, have no fear. “Game of Tiaras,” which also has some Shakespeare influences, will be on November 10 and 11.