Now the Hungry Lion Roars
-Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
He goes by Robin Goodfellow, Hobgoblin, and Puck. Whatever you call him, this mischievous sprite uses his magic accidentally and intentionally to mix up things for the Athenians which sets A Midsummer Night’s Dream in motion.
Coming to us from Northeast Iowa is a performer with experience in improv and a love of karaoke, Rick Gramlich. “This last year or so it has been a real struggle feeding that craving [to perform],” he said. “I have been part of [a local] improv troupe which I long to see come back from the void.”
“What drew me to this monologue, aside from its eye-catching use of certain wonders of the natural world, is the kinship I feel in the character Puck. Here you have this maker of mischief with a big heart. It is the fusion of merriment and compassion that led me to this choice. That and the fact we both beings of poetic prowess. We are entertainers! We have each made poor choices in our adventures which led to growth. How could I not choose Puck?”
You may remember Gramlich from his performance in our first production when he played the priest in 12th Night for 12th Night. Before that he performed long-form improv locally and regionally under the direction of Theatre from the Ground Artistic Director, Chuck Charbeneau.
“I live to bring joy to others and make them feel something. It's who I am!”
RICK GRAMLICH AS PUCK:
THE MONOLOGUE: A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, ACT V SCENE 1, PUCK
“Now the hungry lion roars,
And the wolf behowls the moon;
Whilst the heavy ploughman snores,
All with weary task fordone.
Now the wasted brands do glow,
Whilst the screech-owl, screeching loud,
Puts the wretch that lies in woe
In remembrance of a shroud.
Now it is the time of night
That the graves all gaping wide,
Every one lets forth his sprite,
In the church-way paths to glide:
And we fairies, that do run
By the triple Hecate's team,
From the presence of the sun,
Following darkness like a dream,
Now are frolic: not a mouse
Shall disturb this hallow'd house:
I am sent with broom before,
To sweep the dust behind the door.”
MORE ABOUT THE MONOLOGUE PROJECT
Our goal for Shakespeare from the Ground’s Monologue Project is to collect a library of Shakespearean monologues to share with our community for virtual entertainment while we are still socially distanced. You don’t need to be a professional actor to participate. If you’re inspired and ready to record, great! If you need help selecting your Shakespeare Monologue or getting it recorded, reach out and we’ll help you get the ball rolling. Are you ready to take to the boards once again…virtually?
