A bat apparently had been hanging out in the rafters above the stage. When the lights went down at the anticipated start of the play Friday, the unexpected yet temporary star of the show made its way to the stage.

With a towel and poster board, Tonganoxie Recreation Commission staffer Jennifer Feeney and a play volunteer were able to coax the bat off the stage.

The commotion delayed the production, but the visitor eventually was safely removed from the Tonganoxie Performing Arts Center and back into the wild.

As for the main event, TRC’s Summer Spotlight brought out a cast of more than 30 local youths.

Fern Town played the role of Hermia, while Navach Shriner was Helena. Rosemary Ottens was Lyander, Adam Fitzpatrick portrayed Demetrius and Addie Taves the role of Puck.

Lucas Lightner was Obernon, Madeline Pavlovich portrayed Titania, Sadie Lanier was Bottom, Reed Hoagland played Theseus, Jaci Brassfield was Hippolyta, River Brumley was Quince, Jackson Brassfield played the role of Flutea and Yumanjune Comstock portrayed Snug. Paisley Shriner was Snout, Sophia Brassfield was Starveling and Wyatt Griffin played the role of Egeus.

Carter Shepherd was Philostrate, Mallory Liby played Peaseblossom, Avra Taves was Cobweb, Sophia Seymour played the role of Moth, Hazel Brumley was Mustardseed and Forest Fairy was Nora Johnson.

Soldiers were played by Jaxon Griffin, William Curl, Judah Fitzpatrick, Carl Martin and Jeremy Simpson.

Fairies were Evelyn Davis, Aspen Haas, Peyton Herman, Wilder Arnold, Penelope Fitzpatrick, Alora Olaso, Aliza Taves and Ada Martin.

Jacob Brents again directed TRC’s summer production with the help of volunteer assistants Taylor Brents, Lilly Fouts, Annalise Fouts, Joshua Duvall and Lachlan Bond.

Sponsors for the play were TRC, Tonganoxie USD 464 and Tonganoxie Public Library.