Skylight Music Theatre collaborates with the UWM Department of Theatre to present A ROCKIN’ Midsummer Night’s Dream, a brand-new perspective on one of Shakespeare’s most beloved works. The side-splitting love story is packed full of PSOA talent, with students building up the show’s cast.
Adapted by Michael Unger, this new take on one of the world’s oldest stories comes from his love for young artists. Working with aspiring actors and performers throughout his career, Unger finds that up-and-coming artists provide new and unique perspectives.
“I have spent more than half my career working in professional theatre with young artists, and there’s always some sort of educating going on in a theatre environment,” Unger said. “I’m not just talking about old people educating young people, I’m saying it’s an even exchange. We’re learning from them as they learn from us.”
Lucas Drube, who plays Lysander in the production, has been impacted by the opportunities provided by this collaboration. Originally from Canada, Drube continues to build his professional portfolio using the lessons he learned from the experience.
“I’m used to doing professional shows back home, and it’s so nice to be back in a professional setting while getting all of the support we get from UWM,” Drube said. “They have so much knowledge to share, be open-minded, and listen, but you can also ask so many questions because they have answers.”
Musical theatre student Logan Grace makes her Skylight debut playing the character Helena, one of the story’s young romantics. Taking part in the show, Grace dips her toe into industry work, giving her the building block to move forward in her career.
“It’s been lots of fun getting a taste of the professional world and what it will be like,” Grace said. “I think it helps me relax a little bit going into the real world of theatre because they really just want to see you succeed and do well.”
A ROCKIN’ Midsummer Night’s Dream runs from April 10 – 26 at Skylight Music Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit the PSOA event page and Skylight Music Theatre’s website.
Story by Payton Murphy ’27 (Film)