Ottawa's beloved outdoor theatre company A Company of Fools is putting a fresh, Mediterranean spin on one of Shakespeare's most beloved comedies — and audiences are in for a treat this summer.
A Classic Comedy, Reimagined
A Company of Fools' production of A Midsummer Night's Dream trades the traditional enchanted English forest for something a little more sun-drenched and festive. Drawing inspiration from the infectious energy of Mamma Mia!, the production wraps Shakespeare's tale of love, magic, and mischief in a warm, Mediterranean atmosphere that's equal parts playful and theatrical.
For Ottawa theatre-goers who know A Company of Fools, this kind of inventive reimagining is exactly what the company does best. Since their founding, they've built a loyal following by taking classic texts and turning them into something wholly surprising — and this summer's Dream looks to be no exception.
The Fun Behind the Curtain
Cast members have been buzzing about one of the production's signature challenges: lightning-fast costume changes. With actors playing multiple roles throughout the show, the quick switches between characters add a layer of physical comedy and theatrical flair that keeps audiences guessing — and laughing.
The doubling and tripling of roles is a time-honoured tradition in live theatre, but the Mediterranean costume palette makes each transformation a mini spectacle of its own. Think flowing fabrics, bold colours, and the kind of wardrobe that feels like a vacation in itself.
Why This Production Matters
A Company of Fools holds a special place in Ottawa's cultural landscape. Their commitment to accessible, joyful, and community-rooted theatre has made them a fixture of the city's arts scene for decades. Productions like this one remind Ottawa residents that world-class theatre doesn't require a world-class budget or a formal concert hall — sometimes all you need is an open space, a talented ensemble, and a story that's been making people laugh for over 400 years.
Shakespeare in the summer is practically a rite of passage in cities across Canada, but A Company of Fools consistently finds ways to make it feel urgent and alive rather than dusty and academic. The Mamma Mia! inspiration is a clever hook — it signals to audiences that this is a Dream built for pure fun, not reverence.
Plan Your Visit
If you're looking for something to do in Ottawa this summer that the whole family can enjoy, A Midsummer Night's Dream is a strong contender. Outdoor Shakespeare on a warm Ottawa evening, with a Mediterranean twist and plenty of comedic chaos? That's a hard combination to beat.
Check CBC Ottawa and A Company of Fools' official channels for show dates, locations, and ticketing information. As with many of the company's productions, shows tend to move around to different Ottawa parks and outdoor venues, so confirming the schedule in advance is always a good idea.
Whether you're a Shakespeare devotee or someone who just wants to laugh under the stars, this is one Ottawa summer show worth putting on your calendar.
Source: CBC Ottawa
