This spring, it’s time for the performance of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Wayne State College Theater Department will be performing the show March 28 at 1 p.m., March 29 and 30 at 7 p.m., and March 31 at 1 p.m., giving the students a chance to get some well-known theater productions and Shakespearean acting skills in their repertoire.

In the fall semesters of years past, the program has typically had a performance in the Black Box Theatre. The spring semester performances typically consist of children’s shows to be performed in the Ramsey Theatre.

“We are keeping the children’s show a part of our rotation at WSC because it is a great tradition,” Theater Director Jeanne Tiehen said. “However, I think it is also important students get a chance to perform various forms of dramatic literature that give them a range of experience to confidently enter the professional world of theatre or graduate school.”

Tiehen also stated that Shakespearean acting is a great tool for actors to have under their belt for future shows and auditions.

“Shakespeare is foundational to American theatre, and he is still the most produced playwright in the country,” Tiehen said. “It means something to say you’ve been a part of a Shakespearean production. The plays can be intimidating, but if you don’t get the chance to do it in college, it might be something you’re afraid to approach in auditions, teaching, designing or directing after college.”

While Shakespeare plays can be a difficult portrayal, Tiehen is hopeful about the direction of the show and the WSC program.

“I am excited to work with the students on a Shakespearean play,” Tiehen said. “It will take some work because the language takes a moment to understand and to perform well. I have no doubt our students are up to the challenge. The hope is we keep building and growing as a program, and part of that are the plays we select to stage. I want every student to have experience with a variety of styles, genres, and playwrights to help build their resume. We also always want to entertain our audiences, which great pieces of literature do so well.”

The show from last semester, “Frankenstein,” was a very dark lead up which complimented Halloween and was a great introduction to the program this year.

“I wanted to choose a show that was in thematic contrast to the fall production of ‘Frankenstein,’” Tiehen said.

“So much of ‘Frankenstein’ was this surreal nightmare of isolation, death, and loneliness. I wanted our spring production to be the opposite, and it is light and dreamy in its themes about the trials of love, magic, and celebration.”