Cathleen Allison/Nevada Appeal
William Shakespeare's classic "A Midsummer Night's Dream" - with a special slant for the young and not-so-young - opens Friday at the Brewery Arts Center.
The production by BAC Stage Kids is played by 30 young actors ages 10-16 with the story adjusted to appeal especially to teens and adults.
"It's been specially tailored for young audiences and elementary school players," said Andie Anderson, creative director for the center. "We updated the time period. It's set in modern day but in a fantasy kind of world."
The story tells of the adventures of four teenagers who get lost in an enchanted forest, an ungainly crew of actors producing a play for the visiting duke and duchess, and the sprite Puck, who sets up a string of delightful misadventures with the help of a myriad of magical fairies. It's the great entertainment for the entire family.
Although the story has been updated, the language hasn't.
"The Shakespearean language is only cut down. We haven't changed it," Anderson said. "All the language is the original Shakespeare."
A language challenge the Kids have taken up and concurred.
"They're doing a great job (with the language)," Anderson said. "It's always a little bit more difficulty in understanding the old language. We've worked really, really hard to make sure they understand what they're talking about and why they say it like they do.
"They're doing a great job, better than I ever expected."
The classic play offers an abundance of great parts. The production has two casts for the younger players and "a good 10 leads in each cast," Anderson said.
"We have a ton of standouts."
Especially memorable characters include Bottom, played by Wesley Sonnemaker; Oberon, king of the fairies played by Noelle Bonas and Puck played by Kayleigh Remington. (For a complete cast list, got to nevadaappeal.com).
"This is probably the hardest we've done here at the Brewery Arts Center especially with a group of kids," Anderson said. "It's a huge accomplishment for these kids and I encourage everyone to come out and see it."
Performances are 7 p.m. June 4, 5, 11 and 12; and 2 p.m. June 5, 6, 12 and 13 in the Maizie Harris Jesse Theater. Tickets are $9 general; $6 students, seniors and BAC Members. Buy a ticket from a cast member and get $1 off.
For more information on the Brewery Arts Center go to www.breweryarts.org, visit in person at 449 W. King Street, Carson City, or call 775-883-1976.