The Deering Players brought their 2025-2026 season to a transcendent close with a one-night staged reading of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Under the silver glow of the moon, the stage transformed into an Athenian wood where the boundaries between the mortal and the mystical dissolved into a delightful harmony of comedy and romance. The forest's journey began with the noble Theseus (Liam Williamson) and Hippolyta (Elizeth Francisco), whose stately presence set a tone soon upended by the romantic chaos of the young lovers: Hermia (Natalie Waters), Helena (Ruby Hart), Lysander (Spencer Fieldroy), and Demetrius (Oscar Allen). Navigating the whims of the forest with vibrant energy, they were watched over by the figures of Egeus (Ryan Roarty) and Philostrate (Charlie Dibble), keeping the audience in a state of constant amusement.

The production reached heights of hilarity through the antics of the Mechanicals, an earnest troupe of players that anchored the evening's laughter. While Peter Quince (Clementine Enright) attempted to lead the way, Nick Bottom (Bertie Retzer) delivered a masterclass in comedic timing, commanding the spotlight with unforgettable energy. They were joined in their theatrical escapades by the charming Francis Flute (Simon Bean), Snug (Theodore Caiazzo), Tom Snout (Robin Paterno), and Robin Starveling (Max Nichols).

Meanwhile, the woods came alive through the ethereal power of the fairy realm, where Oberon (Ivayla Varbanova) and Titania (Margo Bean) reigned with otherworldly grace. The ever-mischievous Puck (Zachary Lee) darted through the scenes with a spirit that felt truly out of this world, aided by a shimmering flutter of spirits: Peaseblossom (Toby Romano), Cobweb (Daphne Zager), Moth (Skye Gnade), Mustardseed (Lydia Pye), and the vital presence of the Changeling (Adrianna Smalley). It was a collective feat of imagination where every player shone with a distinct light. This refreshing, magical evening showcased the immense talent of these students, leaving the audience entirely enchanted by a dream they won't soon forget.

A final standing ovation is owed to the visionary crew working tirelessly behind the curtain. The atmospheric world of the forest was made possible by the skill of the Set Team, while the Lighting and Sound technicians expertly balanced shadow and song to pull the audience into the dream. Most importantly, none of this would have been possible without the guidance of Alyssa Rojecki, whose direction throughout this season has been the steady hand guiding these talented students to such creative heights. Congratulations on a magnificent finale!