Written by Lucas Allen and Hanting Bai
On November 28th and 29th, The Bishop Strachan School (BSS) and Upper Canada College (UCC) joined forces to bring Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream to life, and it was nothing short of magical. The play was the culmination of months of rehearsals for the actors as well as many more tireless hours from the crew, stage managers, and most importantly the directors.
As one of the actors, I had the privilege of stepping into this enchanting world of mischief, romance, and transformation. The experience was more than a theatrical journey—it became a meaningful reflection on community, creativity, and our relationship with the land we call home.
The production took place on the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples, both recognized and unrecognized.
Shakespeare’s portrayal of the natural world, woven throughout the play, resonates deeply with the Indigenous worldview that plants, animals, and landscapes are not merely resources but our relatives and guides.
Bringing two schools together for such an ambitious production was no small feat. Yet every actor and crew member put in their greatest effort to bring this world to life. Although, this experience is not limited to tedious memorizations and practices. Coming together and working with one another every single week, the cast members formed close bonds with each other and enjoyed every minute of this magical experience.
From the initial read-throughs to the final curtain call, we worked tirelessly as a team. Whether it was perfecting the timing of a comedic scene, mastering the lyrical beauty of Shakespeare’s language, or coordinating complex choreography, each of us dedicated our time and energy to making the play come alive.
As the curtains closed on our final performance, I was filled with a profound sense of accomplishment. This production was more than a play—it was a labor of love, a celebration of community, and a reminder of the power of storytelling to inspire change.
The friendships formed, lessons learned, and memories created will stay with me for years to come.To everyone who watched A Midsummer Night’s Dream, I hope it sparked joy, reflection, and a deeper appreciation for the role of art in shaping a better future. To my fellow cast and crew, thank you for the laughter, support, and countless hours spent rehearsing and creating something truly magical. Together, we turned a dream into reality.
The Blue and White 