CSUSB’s Department of Theatre Arts presents William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” a whimsical and enchanting play that has captivated audiences for centuries. This production promises to transport theatergoers to a fantastical world where reality and imagination intertwine, offering a night of laughter, love and wonder.

Set in the vibrant city of Athens and the mystical forest beyond, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” weaves together the lives of four young lovers, a group of amateur actors, and the fairy kingdom. As Duke Theseus prepares to wed Hippolyta, Queen of the Amazons, the lovers Hermia and Lysander flee to the woods to escape Hermia's arranged marriage to Demetrius. Pursued by Demetrius and his admirer Helena, their journey becomes entangled with the magical antics of Oberon and Titania, the feuding fairy king and queen. Puck, Oberon's mischievous servant, casts spells that lead to comic misunderstandings and romantic mix-ups. Meanwhile, a troupe of bumbling actors rehearses a play for the Duke’s wedding, adding another layer of hilarity to the night.

Director Kristi Papailler brings a fresh perspective to this beloved comedy, highlighting its themes of love’s complexity, the interplay between reality and fantasy, and the transformative power of imagination. With innovative staging, captivating performances, and a lush, dreamlike set, this production aims to engage audiences of all ages and bring Shakespeare's enchanting vision to life.

Performance Dates:

  • Friday, Nov. 15, at 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, Nov. 16, at 8 p.m.
  • Sunday, Nov. 17, at 2 p.m.
  • Thursday, Nov. 21, at 8 p.m.
  • Friday, Nov. 22, at 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, Nov. 23, at 8 p.m.
  • Sunday, Nov. 24, at 2 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased from the CSUSB Theatre Arts Box Office or online at theatre.csusb.edu. Ticket prices are $6 for students and individuals under 17; $12 for faculty, staff, senior citizens and military/first responders; $15 for adults 18-64.

All performances take place in the Ronald E. Barnes Theatre on the CSUSB campus. Parking at CSUSB is $10.

Follow the theatre’s Facebook account for the most up-to-date information. For additional information, please contact the Theatre Box Office at (909) 537-5884 or theatrearts@csusb.edu. All production dates and times are subject to change to coincide with any health and safety guidelines established by the CDC.