Last night (July 14) was a perfect evening to watch an open air performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream at Eastville Park Swimming Pool. The clear blue sky and birds flying overhead added to the atmosphere which was enhanced by the sun setting part way through the play on what was a warm summer’s evening.
The architecture of the old swimming pool easily doubled up as an amphitheatre. The actors were popping out of every obscure corner and at times inches away from the audience which gave the play a more intimate feel than a traditional theatre production.
The natural environment adds to the imagery and scenery, a wild rosemary bush gives actors a place to hide. According to folklore the herb is associated with the fidelity of lovers, making it highly relevant to the plot of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy.
