Elm Shakespeare Gets a Bollywood Makeover

Summer nights in New Haven are made for a little magic – and no one conjures it better than Elm Shakespeare Company. Since 1995, they’ve been reimagining the Bard’s classics with heart, humor, and a flair for the unexpected. Every year, they deliver two full-scale professional productions and five educational shows, blending local pride with world-class performances that have it all. When the weather warms up, all eyes turn to Edgerton Park. This historic green space sets the stage for starlit picnics, community gatherings, and some of the most memorable performances in town.

This season, Elm Shakespeare turns A Midsummer Night’s Dream into a technicolor dreamscape – infused with the rhythm, energy, and sparkle of Bollywood. Expect mischievous fairies, enchanted forests, tangled romances, and one very confused donkey-headed lover, all brought to life with vibrant music, dynamic movement, and over-the-top style. It’s Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it.

Curious how the Bard ended up in Bollywood? We sat down with the Elm Shakespeare team to get the scoop on this season’s inspired production:

What inspired the company to put on A Midsummer Night’s Dream with a Bollywood twist?

Shakespeare is for everyone – and Elm Shakespeare Company is making sure everyone feels that way. This season, they’re connecting with parts of the community who may be discovering them for the first time. Leading the charge is visiting artist Desh Vansadia from Mumbai, where he’s artistic director of The Shakespeare Theatre of India. His vibrant vision brings A Midsummer Night’s Dream into conversation with Indian music, mythology, and folklore. With its themes of protective parents, passionate love, and divine mischief, the play naturally mirrors classic Indian storytelling. With an international cast and a festival-like atmosphere, this reimagining promises to be a bold, joyful spin on a Shakespeare favorite.

What are some things attendees can expect to be different about this production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream?

Every version of a story creates its own world, and this one bursts with the colors, sounds, and spirit of India. Infused with vivid imagery, evocative music, and lively dance, this production offers a fresh lens on Shakespeare’s classic tale with the timeless story intact. Just keep an eye on the trees – you never know when a fairy might appear.

Are there any rising stars in this production that the audience should keep an eye on?

Elm Shakespeare Company’s stage is shining bright with talent this season, featuring standout performers from the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale. Keep an eye out for Nome SiDone as Oberon, Sarah Lo as Hermia, and Amrith Jayan and Ameya Narkar as the entangled lovers Demetrius and Lysander. They’re joined by seasoned pros Benjamin Curns and Gregory Phelps – veteran performers sharing the stage for an incredible 57th time, bringing Bottom and Thisbe to life

Any tips for attendees?

Arrive early, claim your spot, and don’t forget the snacks. Most folks roll in around 6 with lawn chairs, picnic baskets, and a cozy blanket or two. Live music kicks off at 7:30, setting the mood before the fairies take over.