By A. Brooke Whitley
Milligan’s spring production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was cast on Feb. 7. A unique buzz within the cast has already spread throughout Milligan’s campus.
“I think this will be a show our Milligan community will want to see for a lot of reasons,” said Director Richard Major.
Major said this production is unique to his directorial experience at Milligan because of the extensive size of the cast, which has 22 members.
Ben Carpenter said the cast includes student athletes, theater people, Bible scholars, History majors and others.
“They will be contagious,” said Major.
“Everyone’s excited,” said Samara Clarke, who plays the role of Titania, “even people who I wouldn’t have expected.”
Dr. Lee Blackburn, who was active in Milligan dramas as a student, will play the role of Egeus, father to Hermia. As a professor who teaches Shakespeare, his participation brings a unique connection to this Shakespearian comedy.
Major has found that performing Shakespeare to “complete the educational loop works out really well.” It will be the first time in six years since a Shakespearian comedy has been performed. “The Comedy of Errors” was the last, and was also the show that opened the Gregory Center for the Liberal Arts.
“I fully expect a top notch collegiate production of this material,” said Major.
“Be prepared to laugh your butts off and be prepared to watch an awesome comedy, with some really awesome actors,” said cast member Jeanette Hartsough.
The show will run March 27-30 in the Gregory Center with a preview night on the Wednesday before opening. It is expected to sell out from Friday through Sunday.
Senior Ben Carpenter rehearses with Dr. Lee Blackburn in Milligan’ production of Midsummer Night’s Dream. 
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