Due to the fact that Shakespeare presents the character of Titania as a “tongue in cheek” fairy queen, the actress playing the role would have to portray some degree of comedy while still retaining her status of being a queen. I will explain how I would execute each aspect of her character in order to accomplish an effective representation of the role.
Titania’s movement and gesture must present the fact that she is a fairy. Based on the stereotypical view of fairies, I would move about the stage slowly and gracefully in order to show her status as queen. Wherever she moved, she would be followed by her minions and doted upon in any way possible, for example, whenever she steps down from something she is assisted. This would enable a contrast between her and her husband, Oberon, which is useful because they argue a lot throughout the play and the difference between movements would reinforce this.
With regards to her vocals, I would ensure that they remain comparatively quiet and soft, again, to show a distinction between her and Oberon. Her voice would be soothing and gentle. This calmness would emphasize the feeling of a dream, and very rarely would Titania use heavy, loud vocals in order to achieve her goals, such as winning arguments with her husband.
Emotionally, Titania would be a very fragile and feminine figure: always looking for the best in everything - showing intelligence and a kind, quiet, almost flaccid nature. This calm and collective persona, combined with an effective costume, would generate tranquillity wherever she goes onstage. One thing that I would ensure throughout the piece is the continual assurance that her status is portayed, and I believe that the best way to do this would be through her stage positioning.
As I have seen in previous productions, Titania and Oberon have often been raised above the rest of the cast in order to signify their rank. This elevation depicts their importance and I would use this effective ‘tool’ if I were playing the role. Much of the time spent onstage would be spent above any minor characters, unless the script demanded otherwise. This prominence would create a separation from the audience and would therefore reinforce the idea of the play being a dream.
Her costume and general image would make sure that the audience have no doubts as to her importance or identity. I would possibly have the person playing Titania wear horns on her head or have fairy wings in order to highlight the fact that she is a fairy queen. The colours and fabrics used on the costume must create a misty glow about her, as with the other fairies, to create the image of it being a ‘midsummer night’s dream’.
In conclusion, if I were to perform the role of Titania in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” I would make certain that Shakespeare’s ‘tongue in cheek’ representation is achieved while still ensuring that her status is portrayed. I would do this by generalising her character around the idea that she is warm, caring, comic, fairy-like, imaginary and of higher importance to anybody else, yet unpredictable and diverse, ensuring that her character is adaptable enough to suit arguments and other fluctuations onstage.
