UNF’s Shakespeare in the Park production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Goes Virtual

The University of North Florida’s Department of English, in collaboration with MOCA Jacksonville, is proud to present the 11th annual Shakespeare in the Park production featuring a special live performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream” virtually via Zoom at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 20.

Shakespeare in the Park is a beloved tradition for the UNF community that brings together students and staff in a unique production of a Shakespeare play every year, designed to present authentic, accessible and bold performances for contemporary audiences.

This rendition of "A Midsummer Night's Dream” is directed by Maureen McCluskey, UNF visiting instructor and former Broadway professional, and the cast features University students, staff and members of the Jacksonville community. The story is reimagined in the forest of Athens, Georgia. First performed around 1596, this comic fantasy follows the story of four lovers who find themselves bewitched by fairies. For centuries it’s been one of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays.

“The cast, directing, and production team is thrilled to connect with our community and share a little laughter through this performance and new adaptation of Shakespeare’s famous story,” said McCluskey.

This production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream” contains beautiful original music compositions by UNF senior Nicole Knorr. She recorded these original pieces with several School of Music students. The production also features an original song (also composed by Knorr) that will be performed by soloist Jade Marino. For cast interviews and a special message from Satomi Hoffman of Broadway's The “Phantom of the Opera,” check out the most recent trailer

Registration for this production is free and open to the public. Upon registering, attendees will receive an email with the link to the Zoom performance. After the live performance, the video will be uploaded on the MOCA website for later viewing.

For more information on this year’s production and to view the full cast list, visit the UNF Shakespeare in the Park Facebook page.