The cast of Colerain High School's production of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' embodied characters

Between their rebellious, shaggy hairstyles and fawning, teenage, fan girls, the Beatles shook the world in the 1960s. Their music left disapproving adults shaking their heads, and millions of young people embracing the ideals of peace, love, and… Shakespeare? Colerain High School’s unique interpretation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was a wacky combination of Lennon’s and McCartney’s energetic lyrics and Shakespeare’s elegant iambic pentameter.

The story involved several interlocking love triangles that became increasingly complicated when a magic plant, that caused multiple characters to instantly become infatuated with the first creature they saw, was thrown into the mix. Two young couples quickly fell in and out of love, a fairy queen doted upon a donkey, and a band of hippies dramatically performed a disastrous play within the play. All was overseen by the mischievous Puck, servant of the fairy king. By sending his characters into a mystical forest, Shakespeare ensured that hilarity was inevitable.

Colerain Drama’s performance was an overarching success. The casting was exceptional, since all actors completely embodied their characters in appearance and mannerisms, and the technical aspects subtly enhanced the acting. Comprehensively, the production was convincing and professional.

Lysander and Hermia, played by Brandon Townsend and Ariel McCoy respectively, are one of the pairs of young lovers. Along with Demetrius and Helena, portrayed by Chris Marchan and Lydia Tobler respectively, they hilariously demonstrated the reactions of normal humans caught up in the antics of a magical forest. Sydney Sanders conscientiously portrayed Puck through sprightly movements and magical stage presence.

The motley hippie group was hysterical by all accounts. Nick Bottom, played by Zach Jung, was exceptional as a vivacious hippie, crooning donkey, and passionate actor throughout the play. The rest of his troupe flawlessly complemented his outrageous stunts. Frances Flute, played by Hanna Kovacs, became especially noteworthy when she hilariously foiled his over-the-top character in the hippies’ play within the play.

The set was a versatile forest consisting of live trees and several fairy trapdoors. Beautiful lighting, especially a moon and changing sky backdrop, set the nocturnal atmosphere. The sound system was at times inconsistent, but technicians made up for it by subtly incorporating timely Beatles songs into the performance.

Overall, Colerain Drama’s performance accomplished an unusual cross-cultural analysis. With the help of some fairy magic, it proved that at the heart of this sophisticated Shakespearean play is the Beatles’ simple message that “All You Need Is Love.”

Kerry ULM is a member of St. Ursula Academy’s Cappies, "Critics and Awards Program," the international program that recognizes and celebrates high school theater. Through Cappies journalism students are trained as critics, attend shows at other schools and write reviews. KyPost.com publishes the best of those reviews in support of high school theater. Twenty-three high schools in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky participate in Cappies. For more visit www.cappies.com/cin .