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| | Midsummer in Florida!
Posted on 02/12/2009 by Chelsea
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To kick off 2009, Isabella and Todd Espeland of Commedia Zuppa are in Winter Park, Florida avoiding truly cold weather and directing twenty-four Rollins College theatre students in William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. And, as can be expected of Aerial Angels, this isn't your average Shakespeare - the enchanted forest of Shakespeare s classic tale comes alive with high-flying aerial stunts, acrobatics and circus arts.
Todd and Isabella spent the past six weeks offering the cast a crash course in the grace and skill of circus and physical theatre. "The physical work in the show exists to bring the humor and beauty of Midsummer to life", Isabella says, "You're not going to see play, play, play, trick, talking, trick, lines, and another trick. The movements support the story. Every bit of the work we're doing is there because it makes for a richer story."
Between climbs, a few members of the fairy world (the cast members training most intensely) told me what this experience has meant to them.
Rob Yoho, Fairy: It s absolutely terrifying and absolute freedom. I feel like a dog with my head out the window.
Lauren Bacon, First Fairy: The strength, agility and flexibility I've learned on the fabric has made me more confident in my everyday movement.
Michael Mastry, Oberon: Aerial fabric work has taught me to trust and breathe.
Jessica Miano-Kruel, Peaseblossom: It s a side of theatre I've never gotten to see before. I love it. I hope to continue with it.
Charlie Jicha: It's wonderful, something I'll never forget (as he sees Kyra Wagner dive forward in a straddle, fifteen feet above him) Ouch, that one hurts!
If you'll be in the Orlando area mid-February, come to Rollins College and see their hard work pay off. A Midsummer Night's Dream runs at the Annie Russell Theatre, February 13th-14th at 8pm, the 15th at 4pm, the 18th-20th at 8pm, and the 21st at 2pm and 8pm. Prices range from $17-$19. Call 407-646-2145 for reservations.
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