For over 10 years, Urban Impact Shakes has provided a safe space for student actors to grow in their craft and faith while performing a Shakespeare play distinctly unique in its scope — a stage production infused with personal student testimonies. This fusion of faith and theatre not only provides the students an opportunity to use their God-given gifts for His glory, but it also ministers to audiences in a contemporary and creative way.
Shakes has historically been live theatre, but this summer brought Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream off of the stage and onto the big screen in the form of a feature-length film. The direction and production was led by Performing Arts Urban Missionaries and dedicated volunteers, while nearly 30 Urban Impact students and alumni assisted in building the elaborate sets and delivering Shakespeare’s most famous lines.
The film’s quirky characters and elements of magic called for zany sets and fun costumes to bring the story to life on screen. The off-the-wall take on Shakespeare’s world burst into a labyrinth of purple and blue trees that grew pizza, Polaroid pictures, and giant balls of yarn. Beyond that, the characters sported yellow jumpsuits, glitzy dresses, and even a fast-food chain uniform. Audiences also heard a completely original soundtrack that brings the high language of Shakespeare into the modern world.
But the sets, costumes, and music aren’t the only unique element of the production — the show shines brightest when the plot stops and the actors share testimonies of God’s goodness and mercy. Throughout the film, you hear stories of how God’s forgiveness and healing touched the hearts of students struggling with depression and fear, halted self-harm, and created Christ-centered and life-long friendships. Behind-the-scenes, students went beyond the typical camaraderie that one might find in a cast of actors and truly became a family rooted in the Lord. Their love for one another and vibrant faith in Jesus makes the film extra special.
Gather the family and enjoy Shakes’ take on A Midsummer Night’s Dream for free on YouTube today!