Attention, theater enthusiasts! A captivating musical rendition of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is set to debut, featuring the iconic music of David Bowie, Elton John, and Queen.
Entitled “Midsummer/Bowie Elton Queen,” this production from Motte & Bailey, prod. marks the inaugural outdoor theater presentation at the Baltimore Peninsula. Thanks to a special collaboration with the Baltimore Peninsula Partnership, this innovative performance will take place at Elijah’s Park over two weekends in June, with an additional special outdoor show at Boordy Vineyards in Hydes, Maryland, on Sunday, June 14.
This adaptation stands as Hannah Fogler’s third musical interpretation of a Shakespearean classic, following the sold-out runs of “Hamlet/Black Parade” in October and “Caesar/Americana” in March. “Midsummer/Bowie Elton Queen” embodies a vibrant celebration of life, love, and the journey of self-discovery—even if it involves a few detours in the woods along the way.
The plot of this rendition follows a group of feuding lovers, an enchanted fairy court facing turmoil, and a lively troupe of performers. The production promises to be both humorous and touching, infused with a mischievous spirit. Additionally, Fogler emphasizes that it proudly embraces a queer and colorful aesthetic, described as filled with “glitter and whimsy from asses-to-elbows,” according to the press release. The aim is clear: “Midsummer/Bowie Elton Queen will resonate in your heart and leave you wearing a lasting smile.”
Reflecting on her own journey of self-acceptance, Fogler mentioned, “I didn’t come out as Queer until I was 30 years old, so I was well into adulthood before I got to be my whole self publicly and privately. ‘Midsummer’ is not just a celebration of who you are; it also acknowledges where you are on your path to self-acceptance. It’s crucial to pause and appreciate our present selves, and that’s what we intend to do with ‘Midsummer’—taking a moment to just be and applaud our authentic selves.”
This production diverges from the traditional narrative in that both Athens and the Fairy Court are portrayed as matriarchal societies where heterosexual relationships are less common. The adaptation features reversed gender roles, with most characters played by women and several being non-binary. This version embraces diverse types of platonic and romantic relationships in ways that diverge from Shakespeare’s original intentions.
In her progressive adaptation, Fogler ensures that there is no cross-gender casting; actors portray their characters as their true gender and sexuality. Fogler herself takes on the role of Demetrius, represented here as a bisexual woman, a striking contrast to the seemingly straight male character in the original text.
“Midsummer/Bowie Elton Queen is a Queer Fantasia brimming with joy—and it’s a performance that you absolutely don’t want to miss,” Fogler stated.
Motte & Bailey, prod. proudly claims the distinction of being the first theater company to offer outdoor performances on the Baltimore Peninsula. Elijah’s Park, named after the late U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings, served as a congressman for Maryland’s 7th district from 1996 until his passing in October 2019. He had previously represented Maryland in the House of Delegates from 1983 to 1996 and was remembered as a beloved figure and inspiring orator committed to the people of Baltimore.
Scheduled performance dates and times at Elijah’s Park are as follows:
- Friday, June 12, 8 p.m.
- Saturday, June 13, 8 p.m.
- Thursday, June 18, 8 p.m.
- Friday, June 19, 8 p.m.
- Saturday, June 20, 8 p.m.
Located at 301 Mission Blvd., Baltimore, Md., attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and camp chairs to enjoy the lively sounds of ‘Midsummer’ on the Peninsula, situated overlooking the central branch of the Patapsco River.
The additional outdoor performance at Boordy Vineyards is scheduled for:
- Sunday, June 14, 6 p.m.
General admission tickets are priced at $30, while students, teachers, and artists can acquire tickets for $20. Tickets are conveniently available for purchase online at the Motte & Bailey, prod. website.
CONTENT WARNING: This performance includes themes of drug use, sexual situations, and explicit sexuality (including references to kink culture), partial nudity (rated PG-13), and bawdy humor. It is not recommended for individuals under the age of 15. The production also includes theatrical effects such as haze and live music.
