A group of Vancouver's finest comedic, theatrical and improvisational minds come together for a new play: A comedic look at Shakespeare's tragedy Macbeth, just in time for the holidays.
Macbeth is known around the world not only as one of Shakespeare's greatest villains, but also as a name shrouded in superstition, that thespians do not speak aloud lightly. Now, after 400 years of torment, the Scottish King has come back to the stage to retell his story one last time, and perhaps exonerate himself from centuries of infamy and break the witches curse. Smashing together comedy, improv and the great words of the Bard, The Tragic Comedy of Macbeth promises an entertaining evening for comedy and Shakespeare fans alike.
This mighty endeavour is overseen by two directors, the legendary Bernard Cuffling (Bard on the Beach) handling the classic text while the equally iconic Gary Jones (Vancouver Theatre Sports League) will direct the improvisation.
The cast includes: David C. Jones of Vancouver Theatre Sports League, and Brent Hirose, Aiden Wright, Bridgette May and Ese Atawo, who are all members of Instant Theatre and their hit show Shakespeare After Dark. Some performances will feature Ali Froggatt seen in Blind Date, and Aiden Parker from Fistful of Kicks.
Macbeth by William Shakespeare is considered one of The Bard's greatest plays, and it is also one of his shortest. Originally written as a tribute to the newly crowned King James, it was written quite quickly and included elements like witches and ancestry to appeal to the king. This resulted in some aspects of the play that don't quite come together, and these frayed edges are threads the cast will pull upon to unravel the play and present it in a way never quite seen before. No Shakespeare expertise required, but it will certainly help to enjoy the fun of deconstructing this literary classic. There's no better way to escape the incessant holiday cheer than to let off a little steam and laugh with one of Shakespeare's best (misunderstood?) monsters!
The Tragic Comedy of Macbeth runs Wednesday December 4th until Sunday December 15th at the Jericho Arts Centre. 7:30 pm Wednesday through Saturday with 2pm shows on Sundays. Directed by Bernard Cuffling & Gary Jones and starring Ese Atawo, Brent Hirose, David C. Jones, Brigette May and Aidan Wright. Partially improvised, partially scripted and fully satisfying.
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