Shakespeare is coming to life this fall for Seton Hall University's Department of Communication and the Arts. Students will be putting on a production of the dysfunctional comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the South Orange Performing Arts Center.
The play features Seton Hall student actors and is directed by Alex Carney, a professional director and playwright from New York.
"It's great to be working with a cast of young people for this play," said Carney, who is directing his first play for Seton Hall. "Their youth and enthusiasm really brings out the best in the characters."
The students said they are thrilled to be working with such directorial talent the past few weeks. Many mentioned how Carney has helped them grow within their craft and truly brought the cast together as a family, in turn making the production the best it can be.
"I find it helpful to have someone who will work with you instead of just telling you what to do and expecting you to figure it out on your own," said freshman Jacquelyn Wisniewski, who plays Hippolyta, Queen of the Amazons.
Stage Manager Christopher Milliman, a junior, said that Carney's experience with directing has caused the cast and crew to perform at their best.
The crew said they have been working tirelessly since early September to put one of Shakespeare's most iconic works on display.
Senior Quemars Ahmed, who plays the stereotypical fool in love, Lysander, added that despite the humorous plot, there are serious themes and messages in the play.
Although Shakespeare plays are in a much different style of English, the performers' approach to the play does not change.
"Every time I step on stage, I remind myself 'volume, diction, energy,'" said senior Iame Manucci, who plays the role of Hermia.
"A Midsummer Night's Dream" will run from October 25 to 27 at 8 p.m. and October 28 at 2 p.m. at SOPAC Tickets for students and alumni are only $5 and are available at the SOPAC ticket office or by calling 973-313-2787.
Brett Montana can be reached at brett.montana@student.shu.edu.
