The Arden Theatre Company in Philadelphia inaugurates its new theatre, the F. Otto Haas Stage, April 2, with a performance of Shakepeare's A Midsummer Nights Dream.

The new theatre, located in the Old City section of Philadelphia, is named for F. Otto Haas, a Philadelphia philanthropist who sat on the boards of the Walnut Theatre, Mozart on the Square, and Concerto Soloists, among others.

A fully flexible stage and seating area, the Haas can be configured to a proscenium, in-the-round, or thrust stage and seating can be increased from 100 to 360 seats.

The Haas complements the other Arden Theatre, the 175-seat Arcadia Stage, located on the floor above the Haas.

There will be an open house for the Haas 5-7 PM Friday April 3. Admission is free and visitors may tour the mainstage theatre. Refreshments will be served. Reservations are not necessary. The production of Midsummer Night's Dream will run through May 9. Directed by Arden artistic director, Aaron Posner, the play features original music and magic designed by Teller of Penn and Teller.

-- By Christine Ehren