Summer has always been a ripe time for productions of Shakespeare’s wildly popular “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” often as a light breeze suitable for children.
Finally, the bard’s comedic classic is being reinterpreted at Galapagos Art Space — so you can forget about bringing along the kids.
On July 29, Storybook Burlesque presents a stripped-down version — literally — at the DUMBO space with “A Midsummer Night’s Dream: A Play Within a Play Within a Burlesque Show.”
“We knew we wanted to do a Shakespeare show at some point, so ‘Midsummer’ was the perfect fit,” said South Slope resident Rosey la Rouge, the show’s producer. “We tell the story of the play through dance and minimal text for a performance that is more thought-provoking and visually spectacular and less about the striptease — though striptease is definitely involved.”
Yes, you can expect the traditional story of the four Athenian lovers, who, along with a troupe of silly, amateur actors, are manipulated by fairies into falling in love to near disastrous effects. But this production also adds a “punk rock” aesthetic.
“There is a hard, modern edge to this show and the design concepts behind it,” said la Rouge.
With that, the music will switch from Led Zeppelin to Lady Gaga, and the performers’ costumes will range from period derivations to modern emo teen fare. That is, of course, when they are wearing any costumes at all.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream: A Play Within a Play Within a Burlesque Show” at Galapagos Art Space [16 Main St. at Water Street in DUMBO, (718) 222-8500], July 29, 8 pm. Tickets $10 in advance ($15 at the door). For info, visit www.storybookburlesque.com.