Shakespeare Boogies Down! The Aquinas College Theatre Program presents Shakespeare's classic tale "A Midsummer Night's Dream." The director, Anthony Guest, has created a concept that is sure to draw attention. The play is set in an urban metropolis amidst the height of the late 70's disco and funk era. Reminiscent of Studio 54, the production weaves around the young ingénue Hermia who is in love with Lysander, but is betrothed to the disdainful Demetrius. The two lovers decide to elope and suddenly find themselves lost in a disco night club, appropriately called "The Wood." Helena, Hermia's lifelong friend, who also loves Demetrius, hears of the escape and tells Demetrius. He, in turn, flees to find his betrothed Hermia.

Mayhem ensues as the owner of the night club, Oberon the Fairy King, and the mischievous Puck use magic in attempt to find "sport" by confusing the pairing of the young lovers. Bottom, leader of the band of "rude mechanicals" who are rehearsing a play to be performed for the Duke's wedding (played by professional equity actor and professor at Aquinas College William Irwin) is transformed into a donkey which also includes a dance tribute to Saturday Night Fever's "Stayin' Alive." Eight more dance numbers are performed by the ensemble of fairies. They include hits like "Brick House," "Love Train," and "Knock on Wood." "The audience will feel like they actually stepped into the disco club having entered a time capsule back to bell bottoms and platform shoes," says director Anthony Guest.

Performances are February 23-25 at 8 p.m. and February 25 and 26 at 2 p.m. at the Aquinas College Performing Arts Center, 1703 Robinson Road, S.E. Tickets are only $10 for general seating, $8 for faculty and staff, and $4 for students and can be ordered by dialing the Box Office (616) 456-6656.