Today was the opening performance of Shakespeare at the Cottage.
A quiet moment of prayer before the curtain opens.
Titania’s welcome
Theseus, Hippolyta and Philostrate.
Hermia, Egeus, Lysander and Demetrius
Holding court
Scene change courtesy of some fairies and hobgoblins.
The players, Nick Bottom, Francis Flute, Starveling, Peter Quince, Snug and Snout
Puck
Music provided by the lovely and immensely talented Elizabeth.
Titania and her fairy attendents: Peaseblossom, Cobweb, Moth and Mustardseed.
Oberon
Since it was expected that the occasional toddler would wander on the stage, in this case the Cottage toddler, all little brothers and sisters were in costume so as to blend in.
The four lovers, Hermia, Helena, Lysander and Demetrius.
Bottom with the head of an ass…
Peter Quince calling the players to perform for Theseus and Hippolyta.
The court of Theseus watching the players perform the tragedy of Thisbe and Pyramus.
Pyramus, Thisbe, Wall, Moonshine and Lion.
Taking a bow.
Our second performance is tomorrow. The children did such a brilliant job ~ they far exceeded our expectations. Please do not ever assume your children are too young for Shakespeare. The average age of our company of players here was about ten years old. They memorized the entire play, knew their roles and generally made us all proud enough to burst.
I am pretty sure the Bard would be pleased.
INCREDIBLE!!!!
That looks like it was wonderful! Tell the players congratulations on their performance!
How wonderful, I would have to say that this one is our Favorite Shakespeare!! What great photos, thanks so much for sharing!
Simply
AMAZING!!!
You are phenomenal, Mary Ellen! This was so much fun, and Ryan, Katie, Erin and Kelli were tremendous in their roles. I will never forget hearing Ryan play guitar with Libby!