Mark Desebrock plays Lysander in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, in a new adaptation written and directed by Reading Rep Theatre’s Founding Artistic Director Paul Stacey.
Stacey directs Amy Ambrose, Beth Eyre, Mark Desebrock, Dave Fishley, Jonty Peach, and Charlotte Warner. A riotous, raucous, and riveting night out, A Midsummer Night’s Dream is the story of love in all its confusion.
A professional acting troupe of six outrageous performers arrive in Reading to perform in celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Mistakes, potions, and a couple of pints are sure to make the event one to remember.
The production, suitable for all the family, opens at Reading Rep on 17 May, with previews from 11 May and runs until 5 June.
You’re playing Lysander in Reading Rep’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, what can you tell us about this production?
It’s a bright, bold, magical and wonderfully different version of Dream. The hope is to make it feel like a celebration of summer – there’s dancing, singing, magic, and of course, Shakespeare. It has everything.
What is it about Paul Stacey’s adaptation that has impressed you the most?
Paul has managed to adapt the show into something completely original and unique. He’s turned the show on its head in a way that works in a really fun, fast paced, and brilliantly chaotic way.
Tell us more about Lysander, what are you excited about taking on this role?
Lysander is a cracking part – he has a great journey throughout the play as he starts as a man head over heels in love, but is magically transformed in the woods to fall for someone else and turns into quite a nasty guy because of it. It’s really fun to play.
What do you think will be the biggest challenge for you with this role?
The dancing. I’d like to apologise to the audience in advance for my attempts.
How will this production feel at home in Reading?
We’ve set the show up as a bunch of Reading based actors trying to create a play for the Queen’s Jubilee. It’s really lovely to be putting on a show, based in Reading, for Reading.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see A Midsummer Night’s Dream?
If you’re up for a really fun, chaotic evening of magic, music and Shakespeare, then this is the show for you. Don’t expect a traditional version of Dream, though! We’ve made a very different and exciting version!
