Much Ado about a Summer’s Dream

A reflection from a UW-Madison journalism and communication arts student on spending a summer working at American Players Theatre. Wisconsin has a secret. It plays home to one of the most charming towns in the country: Spring Green, WI. On a large-scale, this location includes the iconic House on the Rock attraction as well as Taliesin, the summer home of American architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. On a smaller scale the town boasts numerous shops and restaurants, including Convivio and Arcadia Books. Spring Green also houses the wonderful American Players Theatre, providing world-class entertainment since 1980. This summer I was provided the incredible opportunity to work as the Marketing Assistant and Events Coordinator for this establishment. Going into the job, as someone looking to work in public relations for the entertainment industry, I saw the position as a resume booster. Three months later, now leaving the job, spending a summer at American Players Theatre was unusually special. Sure, my job title was simple: updating the social media for APT, introducing the staff at the Bard Talks and working on other miscellaneous projects for the theatre's marketing and events. However, the more time I spent there, the more I realized the power of this venue. The grounds are absolutely gorgeous. Picnic tables and grills are scattered among the ground for the ideal picnic environment. Large, green, leafy trees hover over trails and surround the uphill theatre. APT literally stands in the middle of the woods, a hidden gem for all those who visit. The audiences can not be underestimated for their role in shaping APT. Their continued support year after year, many since the very beginning, can not be matched. The staff consists of the most passionate, dedicated group of people I've ever seen. Every single person works tirelessly to provide nothing less then the best. From actors to facilities to production to administration to artistic staff, every single person loves their job and is proud of their status as an APT employee. Lastly, the plays. Stories come to life on and off the stage, and I will sincerely miss being able to watch each play multiple times, from different angles, each time some new message, some new character speaking to me. Classics, romance, drama, music, dogs, laughter, surprises, beauty, stars and awe: that list doesn't even begin to describe an APT experience. High expectations are continually met, and exciting surprises are inevitable. APT continues these high stands day after day, week after week, month after month, year are year, and I know they will continue. Altogether, this is the APT experience. The experience, as many have described it, is nothing less than magical. A small section of woods in Wisconsin lights up every summer with excited audiences, motivated staff and unforgettable plays. William Shakespeare could not be prouder of the manner in which this venue shares his stories. My summer with APT will always remain a memorable experience. Thank you for allowing me to celebrate the magic and play in the woods. It was not a resume booster at all, but rather a summer's dream. I have one year left at UW-Madison and then I'm hoping to pursue a marketing career in NYC. However, I know that any point I can, and will, return to Spring Green, and APT will graciously welcome me, with arms wide open, to a special home. Cheers to Spring Green. Cheers to the woods and Mother Nature. Cheers to the audiences. Cheers to the staff. Cheers to the plays. Cheers to the Bard. Cheers to the magic. Cheers to American Players Theatre.