"Shakespeare in the Garden" Brings Classic Comedy to Unique Venue

Goodell Gardens and Homestead

How could the lush gardens at Goodell be any more magical? Add in the timeless Shakespearian comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream performed outdoors within the botanical gardens by the players of the Meadville Community Theater under twinkling lights.

FRIDAY, JUN. 2

The partnership between Goodell Gardens & Homestead and Meadville Community Theatre enters its third year with their most ambitious project yet. William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream will be set in the beautiful botanical gardens at Goodell for three performances.

This is a passion project for Goodell Gardens & Homestead Executive Director Amber Wellington, who fell in love with the Bard's work when she played a fairy in the very same play in high school. She was so inspired by the experience, she went on to study English literature at Edinboro University. In 2020, Goodell Gardens implemented a new artistic vision, which included partnering with other local non-profit organizations. Meadville Community Theatre (MCT) and A Midsummer Night's Dream were on Wellington's mind when Sylvia Cagle, Marketing Chair at MCT, reached out to see if there was a possibility of performing at Goodell Gardens.

Cagle, who is the director of A Midsummer Night's Dream, was looking for a way to hold performances in the 2021 world, when the only safe option was to be outside. We have come a long way since then, but the outdoors has proven to be a delightful venue. Shakespeare's playful comedy, set during an evening in the woods, is perfectly suited to the magical gardens.

Amber Wellington said, "When Sylvia reached out to us in 2021 looking for an outdoor space for a play, my mind began to run wild with possibilities. It's long been my dream to bring A Midsummer Night's Dream alive in the Gardens, and I am so honored to see that dream come true. We sincerely hope folks turn out for this massive undertaking, as proceeds will be split between Meadville Community Theatre and Goodell Gardens, two nonprofit organizations doing great work in Northwestern Pennsylvania."

Be prepared for more than just a play. Come early to stroll the Gardens and enjoy a glass of wine, then settle in for a night of merriment and mirth. Goodell Gardens and MCT have pulled out all the stops to make A Midsummer Night's Dream a special event.

Friday, Jun. 2 at 6 p.m., Saturday, Jun. 3 at 6 p.m. and Sunday, Jun. 4 at 2 p.m. // Goodell Gardens & Homestead, 221 Waterford St., Edinboro // $20-$30 // Tickets and information: goodellgardens.org/theatre