Shakespeare Shines at New Pond Farm
Article reprinted from The Redding Pilot
“If there really is such a thing as turning in one’s grave, Shakespeare must get a lot of exercise,” wrote George Orwell. The Bard rested peacefully on Saturday, July 18 as 15 middle school actors staged a thoroughly enjoyable and imaginative performance of A Midsummer Night’s Dream in a pastoral setting by the pond.
Plays and theatrical performances have long been a tradition at New Pond Farm. Founder, actress Carmen Mathews, was known for her one-woman shows and theatrical readings, and for more than a decade, middle and high school-aged actors have had the opportunity to explore in a very hands-on way, the classic works of William Shakespeare.
“We have two programs for young actors, both led by the talented director Nancy Ponturo and enrichment director Julia Levo,” said Ann Taylor, New Pond’s Executive Director. “Each year our three-week summer program selects one of Shakespeare’s best-loved comedies, and in addition to mounting outstanding performances, middle school actors enjoy many enrichment activities that give them a glimpse into the life and times of William Shakespeare as well as an understanding of his language.” “Our eight-week winter program,” she continued, “gives high school actors a chance to focus on scene work from the tragedies.”
This year the two programs were linked when the high school actors brought scenes from Macbeth to John Read Middle School. “Their amazing performances inspired the students, our phone began ringing and the summer program filled very quickly,” said Taylor, adding, “We consider these programs to be a tribute to Carmen. She received her training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, and had lead roles in many of Shakespeare’s plays with reknowned British actor Maurice Evans. Carmen went out of her way to encourage young actors, and these two, very professional programs are certainly cultivating a passion for Shakespeare.”
