Post published:October 1, 2026

MSU’s ‘Midnite’ Brings Shakespeare, Horror, and a Killer Donkey onto the Stage

What happens when a group of film majors head into the woods to make a horror movie? Things get supernatural and weird!

The Michigan State University Department of Theatre presents “Midnite,” written by Reina Hardy and Rory Leahy with direction by Rob Roznowski, Professor in the Department of Theatre. This horror-comedy reimagines Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” filled with madness, drag, and a killer donkey – all perfect for the month of Halloween!

A group of people pose together indoors, many with expressive or playful gestures, while one person lies stretched out at the front. Theater seats are visible in the background. — The MSU student cast of “Midnite” with drag consultant Crystal D’Light. *(Photo by Aryne Drews)*

The production features 14 actors, two understudies, and more than 20 creative and production team members. Roznowski wanted the rehearsal process to be as playful as the production itself.

“We began this process by having everyone share their favorite horror film and create their own drag name,” Roznowski said. “‘Rosemary’s Baby’ and ‘Lady Boy Johnson’ [is mine.]”

The production also worked with drag consultant Crystal D’Light, who helped the company embrace its “fabulosity.”

Two performers playfully dance or spar onstage: a person in black leans forward as another in a white shirt raises their arms, wearing a red headpiece. — Students rehearse for “Midnite.” *(Photos by Emelia Duffield)*

A curly-haired woman in glasses leans forward intensely during a theater rehearsal, while another performer and seated observers watch in a dim room. — Students rehearse for “Midnite.” *(Photos by Emelia Duffield)*

After years of directing in traditional and non-traditional MSU spaces like the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams and the MSU Patient Simulation Lab, Roznowski finds himself enjoying bringing the audiences closer to the action. Thus, for “Midnite,” audiences should steer clear of the second row since actors will use it during the performance.

“They’re running from a killer donkey, for heaven’s sake,” the audience notice says.

“Midnite” opens Friday, Oct. 9, with eight performances scheduled through Sunday, Oct. 18. Performances all take place in the Arena Theatre in the MSU Auditorium Building and run approximately one hour and 50 minutes, including a 10-minute intermission.

Content notice: There is a donkey who tries to kill people. Be forewarned.