Actually Oberon Modern Plays Anna Ziegler: A Comprehensive Exploration

Anna Ziegler's "Actually Oberon" is a thought-provoking play that explores the complexities of human relationships, the search for meaning, and the transformative power of theater.

The Story

The play centers around two actors, Ellyn and Samuel, who are rehearsing a production of Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Ellyn, a passionate and idealistic young woman, is eager to delve deeply into the play's themes and characters. Samuel, on the other hand, is a more experienced and pragmatic actor who struggles to connect with the material.

Actually (Oberon Modern Plays)

by Anna Ziegler

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	984 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	70 pages
Paperback	:	52 pages
Item Weight	:	5.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	7.87 x 5.51 x 1.57 inches

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As the rehearsals progress, Ellyn and Samuel find themselves drawn to each other both on and off stage. They share a deep love of theater and a desire to create something meaningful. However, their relationship is also fraught with tension and conflict.

Ellyn's idealism clashes with Samuel's jadedness, and their different approaches to acting create a divide between them. As they struggle to find common ground, they are forced to confront their own beliefs and motivations.

The play culminates in a powerful performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," which transforms the lives of both Ellyn and Samuel. Through the magic of theater, they find a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

The Characters

Ellyn is a young woman who is passionate about theater and literature. She is intelligent, articulate, and eager to learn. She is also naive and idealistic, which sometimes leads her to clash with others.

Samuel is an experienced actor who has grown weary of the theater business. He is cynical and pragmatic, and he struggles to connect with the emotional depth of his characters. Samuel is also drawn to Ellyn's youthful enthusiasm, but he is afraid of getting hurt.

Dr. Rosen is the director of the theater company that is staging "A Midsummer Night's Dream." He is a wise and experienced man who helps Ellyn and Samuel to find their way through the challenges of the play.

Peter Quince is the director of the play-within-a-play in "A Midsummer Night's Dream." He is a bumbling and forgetful character who provides comic relief to the play.

Helena is the love-struck daughter of the Duke of Athens. She is infatuated with Demetrius, but he is in love with Hermia.

Hermia is the daughter of the Duke of Athens. She is in love with Lysander, but her father has promised her to Demetrius.

Lysander is the young man who loves Hermia. He is a passionate and idealistic character who is willing to fight for what he believes in.

The Themes

The search for meaning is a central theme in "Actually Oberon." Ellyn and Samuel are both searching for something more in their lives. They find it in theater, which gives them a sense of purpose and connection.

The transformative power of theater is another important theme in the play. Theater has the ability to change people's lives. It can teach them about themselves, the world around them, and the human condition.

The complexity of human relationships is also explored in the play. Ellyn and Samuel's relationship is both passionate and difficult. They are drawn to each other, but they also clash frequently. Their relationship is a microcosm of the complexities of human relationships.

The Production

"Actually Oberon" was first produced in 2013 at the Humana Festival of New American Plays. It was directed by Liesl Tommy and starred Mary-Louise Parker and Michael Cera.

The play was a critical and commercial success. It won the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding New Off-Broadway Play and was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

Since its debut, "Actually Oberon" has been produced all over the world. It has been translated into several languages and has been performed by numerous theater companies.

The Critical Reception

"Actually Oberon" has received positive reviews from critics. Here are a few excerpts:

"Anna Ziegler's 'Actually Oberon' is a smart, funny, and moving play about the transformative power of theater. It's a must-see for anyone who loves the theater." - The New York Times

"'Actually Oberon' is a beautifully written play that explores the complexities of human relationships. It's a play that will stay with you long after you've seen it." - The Hollywood Reporter

"Anna Ziegler is one of the most exciting playwrights of her generation. 'Actually Oberon' is a testament to her talent and her ability to write plays that are both entertaining and thought-provoking." - The Guardian

Anna Ziegler's "Actually Oberon" is a powerful and moving play that explores the complexities of human relationships, the search for meaning, and the transformative power of theater. It is a play that will stay with you long after you've seen it.

Actually (Oberon Modern Plays)

by Anna Ziegler

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	984 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	70 pages
Paperback	:	52 pages
Item Weight	:	5.1 ounces
Dimensions	:	7.87 x 5.51 x 1.57 inches

FREE