A Midsummer Night's Dream Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?

What Happens at the End of A Midsummer Night's Dream?

Hermia loves Lysander, Demetrius loves Hermia, Helena loves Demetrius, Theseus and Hippolyta are almost newlyweds and the already-complex marriage of the immortal queen and king of Fairyland is further complicated when one of them falls for an amateur actor-turned-ass. Intrigued by the theory that Shakespeare wrote this play as a wedding gift, director Joseph Haj (who helmed 2015’s much-beloved Pericles) probes the pitfalls and pay-offs of relationships, be they budding or eternal. Seeking out the grace, beauty and delight embedded in the comedy, this joyful, music-laden production invites us to feel as well as laugh.

Joseph Haj's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Lauren Modica (Titania / Hippolyta)'s journey. Intrigued by the theory that Shakespeare wrote this play as a wedding gift, director Joseph Haj (who helmed 2015’s much-beloved Pericles) probes the pitfalls and pay-offs of relationships, be they budding or eternal.

How Does Lauren Modica (Titania / Hippolyta)'s Story End?

• Lauren Modica: Lauren Modica's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
• Al Espinosa (Oberon / Theseus): Al Espinosa's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
• Jimmy Kieffer (Puck / Philostrate / Ensemble): Jimmy Kieffer's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

What Does the Ending of A Midsummer Night's Dream Mean?

The ending of A Midsummer Night's Dream brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Lauren Modica's story may not satisfy all audiences.