By By PATTY EYCLESHYMER / Special to the Niles Daily Star
"Midsummer Night's Dream" by William Shakespeare, presented last weekend by the Niles Drama Club, under the direction of Cathy Heide, was a smashing success.
Good-working microphones for all the lead characters, authentic looking costumes, a set, that was well thought out and beautifully painted and lit, indeed, added a lot to the presentation. However, it was the high school actors that were certainly the stars.
Each scene was introduced and explained in a clear and witty way by Zach Strangebye who played the role of the Bard. His performance was given so "off the cuff." it was hard to determine if it was prewritten or not. He did a wonderful job.
In addition to Zach, the scenes were preceded by a current popular song, which lent an updated and comedic air during the transitions. All of the music was enjoyable.
Brandi Senger, playing the humorous Puck, messenger to the Fairy King, as well as another character, was marvelous. Her costume, demeanor and strong voice helped lead the viewers through the Fairy Kingdom.
Speaking of fairies, Sara Aycock playing Titania the Fairy Queen, was radiant. Her gown, as well as the gowns and wings of her entourage were absolutely perfect as they fluttered and danced across the stage.
Brian Beckwith, who should at the very least be acting at the Beckwith Theater or on Broadway, was sensational as the loud-mouthed, egotistical Bottom. Without a microphone, he sent his voice soaring to the upper most balcony and back again. His gestures and pacing were bigger than life and when he was on stage, he was the star. Congratulations Brian.
The true female stars were Heather Antos as Helena and Kelsey Schoff as Hermia. Even if you had trouble understanding the difficult Shakespearian lines, you had no trouble following the plot line as you watched these young actors. Their expressions and voices as they pronounced their love to each of their lovers, to the all-out cat fight between them as they fought for those lovers, was something to behold. It has been a pleasure to watch them throughout the years grow into such professional actors.
In addition to Brian Beckwith, the male stars were Dakota Word, playing the lover Lysander and The Wall, Jim Heide as Flute and the lovely Thisbe and Shane DeMuelenaere as Oberon, the Fairy King. In addition to these difficult roles, Jim and Shane jumped in at the last minute to save the play after an actor was unable to continue. The gentlemen shared the role of Demetrius, the leading man, which meant not only quick costume changes, but character changes as well. This was difficult to do under the easiest of circumstances.
These actors not only captured the complex language, but were able to portray the best of Shakespeare.
Last, but certainly not least, Cathy Heide, director and producer needs to be commended for bringing this play together.
Do not mistakenly think this was a production associated with Niles High School. They have no theater department. Heide has taken it upon herself to define, direct, finance, coach, cast and the thousand other jobs it takes to produce a major production. Shakespeare no less. There obviously is much talent in our area and she deserves thanks for sharing it with us.