Short Shakespeare!" The two words aren't usually uttered in the same breath. But that's the name of the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre's family-oriented program, which will present a 75-minute Midsummer Night's Dream this winter.

The program, presented on Saturdays at 11 AM and geared toward families, debuted in summer 2001 at CST's Navy Pier theatre. The troupe will bring it back from Jan. 29 to March 9. Each performance features a fully professional, albeit speedy, rendition of the Bard's bewitched comedy, followed by a 15-minute discussion period with the actors, in which kids (and moms and dads) can ask questions about the show.

Gary Griffin, director of CST's hit mounting of Sondheim's Pacific Overtures, helms the outing. The cast features: Christian Anderson as Lysander; Ben Cohen as Flute and Thisbe; Jason Denuszek as Puck; Lisa Dodson as Hippolyta and Titania; Sean Fortunato as Demetrius; Michelle Hensley as Hermia; Jack Sewell Jordan as Theseus and Oberon; Brian Koester as Snout and Wall; Susan A. Miller as Helena; Bradley Mott as Bottom; Larry Neumann, Jr. as Egeus and Quince; and Demetria Thomas as Snug and Lion.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children, ages 12 and under. Each performances takes place at CST's Courtyard Theatre. For more information, call (312) 595-5600.

—By Robert Simonson