A Theatrical Journey: Joe Staton and Chloe Champken Bring A Midsummer Night’s Dream to Life

RiffRaff NYC is set to enchant audiences this fall with its latest production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, co-directed by the talented team of Joe Staton and Chloe Champken. This highly anticipated rendition of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy opens on November 21st at the Court Square Theatre, promising an imaginative twist infused with a mystical nightclub atmosphere.

For Joe Staton, this production represents the culmination of a lifelong passion. He first discovered A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the age of 10, captivated by the play's blend of magic, romance, and humor. Years later, Staton stepped into the role of Flute with the Classic Theatre of San Antonio, deepening his connection to the material. However, his dream has always been to stage his own version—one that would transport audiences into an otherworldly nightclub, pulsing with mystery and allure. Yet Staton’s aspirations extended beyond directing; he had long wanted to embody the character of Peter Quince, a role he finds irresistibly fun and richly textured. This dual ambition led him to invite Chloe Champken to co-direct, allowing him to step into Quince’s shoes.

Chloe Champken first crossed paths with Staton in 2023 when he was producing Knock Knock, a British play featured in the New York Theatre Festival. Eager to make her mark on the New York theatre scene, Champken approached Staton with an interest in directing. Impressed by her vision and dedication, Staton brought her on board. Their collaboration on Knock Knock proved successful, sparking a series of joint ventures. Champken returned a year later to direct the play again, solidifying her status as an invaluable creative partner. The pair also worked side by side on Flattery in Friendship, a Shakespearean showcase by RiffRaff NYC that blended monologues, scenes, and songs to celebrate the Bard’s legacy.

Now co-directing A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Staton and Champken are seamlessly blending their strengths. Staton has focused his directorial energies on the fairies and lovers, infusing their scenes with the ethereal, club-like energy he envisioned. Meanwhile, Champken has meticulously directed the scenes involving the Mechanicals, bringing her keen sense of comedy and timing to the forefront. This division of creative responsibilities has allowed Staton to also appear onstage, fulfilling his long-held desire to portray Quince.

Their partnership is marked by a shared British heritage and a deep respect for each other’s artistic instincts. Living in New York, Staton and Champken have forged a working relationship that has enriched RiffRaff NYC’s productions with a distinctive blend of innovation and classic theatricality.

In an intriguing turn of events, Staton and Champken’s collaboration is set to continue beyond Midsummer. In December 2024, Staton will take on an acting role in N. Richard Nash’s The Rainmaker, directed by none other than Champken herself. This future project underscores the depth of their creative synergy and hints at more remarkable productions to come.

RiffRaff NYC’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream promises to be a production full of magic, humor, and vibrant energy—a testament to the shared vision and enduring partnership of Joe Staton and Chloe Champken.