A Midsummer Night's Dream

Editorial

It's become a tradition in Melbourne - the Australian Shakespeare Company's outdoor performances in the Royal Botanic Gardens - and that's because they've been doing it since 1989. This summer they're celebrating 21 years of Shakespeare Under The Stars with A Midsummer Night's Dream - and a special Gala performance on opening night - exactly the same date the original season opened 21 years ago.

It's certainly a unique experience, settling down on the lawn in the Botanic Gardens as dusk begins to fall, rug in place and picnic basket not far away, to watch the machinations of the mischievous Puck as he dabbles in the love lives of Hermia and Lysander, Demetrius and Helena, and the king and queen of the fairies, Oberon and Titania. But as we know, because Shakespeare tells us, “the course of true love never did run smooth”. A Midsummer Night's Dream is one of Shakespeare's best-known and most-loved plays, and is suited to the magical setting of the dusky Royal Botanic Gardens perfectly.

So arm yourself with a basket full of goodies, rugs, cushions, insect repellant, and a warm jumper just in case, and enjoy a magical summer experience. Snacks, refreshments and pre-ordered hampers are also available at the venue. Enter through the Observatory Gate on Birdwood Avenue opposite the Shrine of Remembrance, and for that last-minute weather check, call 1300 122 344.

For more information, visit the Australian Shakespeare Company website.

Tim Hunter, Citysearch