Naked Shakespeare Presents CURSED

Naked Shakespeare, Acorn Productions' performance series dedicated to presenting the works of the Bard in accessible ways for contemporary audiences, continues its third season of First Friday performances in The Ballroom at Mechanics Hall with "Curséd" this February.

Throughout history the term "witch" has been thrown out as a way to brush off or denounce women. Naked Shakespeare gives voices to the voiceless in a time where the definition consent as well as stories of assault and abuse are questioned. The adaptation, created and directed by Megan Tripaldi, features scenes from four plays woven into a powerful tale of pain, revenge, and magic as told through Shakespeare's words.

The story of Curséd follows three women who have been accused as witches for trying to speak the truth against the horrible treatment they have endured get the chance to fight back. They've killed their husbands, their children, and now there is nothing left for them to lose. Using the term "witch" to their advantage, they get the chance to show their tormentors what real power looks like.

This performance includes selections from the following plays: The Winter's Tale, Richard III, Henry IV, part two, and of course Macbeth. Shows take place in the Ballroom at Mechanics Hall on Thursday, February 1st and First Friday, February 2nd at 7:30pm. Both shows are pay-what-you-can with a $10 suggested donation. As a continuation of a new program designed to bring the company's performances into non-traditional establishments.

"Curséd" will also be performed at the Urban Farm Fementory in Portland's Bayside Neighborhood on Friday, February 9th and Saturday, Feruary 10th at 7:30pm, with tickets $10 for all ages. For more information, audience members are encouraged to visit Acorn's website at www.acorn-productions.org.