Madcap comedy for Stratford | Taranaki News | Local News in Taranaki

STRATFORD on Stage members are in the throes of rehearsals for their latest production, a madcap comedy called ‘A Midsummer Nightmare.’
The two-act comedy was written and is being directed by Ray Cleaver, who was commissioned to put on the show to coincide with the visit of people from all over the world at the annual Stratfords of the World reunion, being held this year in Taranaki.
The plot of the two-act production revolves around a small town theatre group – The Avon Players – who are putting on a show containing well-known excerpts from Shakespeare’s plays.
Act One is their final rehearsal and tensions are running high between members of the dysfunctional cast and their own aspirations.
Act two is their grand performance, which is a total disaster, one that would have the bard turning in his grave.
The comedy was first written and played in the Kings Theatre 15 years ago, when it was well received. Last year Ray Cleaver re-wrote and updated the show for its return in three weeks.
“It’s off-the-wall and a good belly laugh and the cast are having a lot of fun. If you enjoy Shakespeare you’ll love the show and if you can’t stand Shakespeare you’ll love it too,” said Ray.
The production opens in Stratford’s TET Kings Theatre on Thursday February 25, and there will be five public performances on February 25, 26, 27, 28 (matinee) and March 2, plus a private performance for the Stratfords of the World visitors on March 5.
Tickets are $18 and will soon be available at the Stratford Information Centre.
The cast of the production is:
Jeremy - Colin Hemsley, Anthea Spratt - Lois Kyle, Eunice - Gloria Webby, Euphrates Frimp - Becky Tihema-Walsh, Justin Frimp - Jym Shute, Gareth - Gordon Gray-Lockhart, Donald - Ray Cleaver, Anton - Mike Bellomo.
Supporting cast - Mickie Mills, Tim Rose and Barry Milner.