Wayside Theatre’s Education in Action Presents Macbeth 4/8-10

Wayside Theatre Artistic Director Warner Crocker today announced Wayside Theater will present the tragedy Shakespeare's "Macbeth" The second production in the Emerging Artist in Action Program for the 2010-2011 Season will be presented at the Warren County Middle School in Front Royal, Virginia. "Macbeth" opens April 8 -10.

Macbeth is Shakespeare's shortest tragedy. The major elements of the tragedy are the assassination of King Duncan by Macbeth, which Lady Macbeth having consigned the deed to Macbeth, plots to secure the throne for her husband. Also, the consequence of the evil decision leads Macbeth down a road of murders and war with Malcolm. The play concludes with Macbeth's confrontation with MacDuff which fulfills the witches' prophecy. Sarah Blackwell, the Director and Director of Education, said, "We are looking into what makes up the man. What events in his life cause him to make the decisions he makes. Macbeth is no different. He makes a decision and he sticks with it. Does that make him evil?"

Also, Sarah Blackwell stated, "The superstition about Macbeth, is just that...a superstition. Because of all the witchcraft and dark vibes, there is supposedly a curse on each production. However, as I explained to the cast on the first day of rehearsal, every show has its accidents. Look at Spiderman. And we still can say that name without spinning three times and spitting."

Warner Crocker, Artist Director said, "This Emerging Artist program allows young people the chance to perform alongside professional adult actors. They do not get that opportunity very often. And we are excited about being able to offer this performing opportunity for the young adults in our region" Warner Crocker said. "There has been a lot of interest in tackling Shakespeare by our local youth," stated Crocker. "And we are thankful for the community support for our local youth from Warren County Public Schools and Lord Fairfax Community College."

Sarah Blackwell, Director of Education said, "I am exhilarated by the support of the community for this production, Warren County Middle School for housing our production and Lord Fairfax Community College for giving us a rehearsal space for a cast and crew of 27 people. It's really coming together because of everyone pitching in their skills and assets to the project."

Sarah Blackwell said, "It has been a wonderful experience watching the kids working with the adult actors. We cast this way so that the kids have adults to look up to and learn from, however, the adults are learning from the kids as well. It's amazing to watch."

The cast, includes local youth: Jessie Kraemer of Stephens City as Lady Macbeth, Daniel Russell of Edinburg, Brandon Shockey of Hardy County, WV, Carly Cramer of Winchester, Jennifer and Jessica Davidson of Winchester, Katie Hemmen of Winchester, Josh Shelor of Woodstock, Jake Adams of Stephens City, Forrest Limon of Middletown, Patrick Bauserman of Winchester, Claire Lewis of Winchester, Sarah Hoffman of Middletown and Margot Cramer of Winchester. The professional actors: Matt Baldoni as Duncan, and Forrest Sassaman as Banquo. Intern company actors: Aaron Mann, as Macbeth and Eddie Staver III as MacDuff

The play is directed by Sarah Blackwell and Set Design by Wes Calkin, Costume Design by Sarah Painter and Lighting Design by Wes Calkin.

Wayside Theatre's "Macbeth" will be performed at Warren County Middle School, 240 Luray Avenue, Front Royal, VA 22630. Macbeth official opening night is Friday, April 8 at 7:30 PM. Performances will continue through April 10. Ticket prices are $12 to $15 dollars for adults and $10 for children 5 to 17. Group discounts are also available. Performances are on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 PM., Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2:30 PM and two student matinees will also be available school classes on April 12 and 14.

Wayside Theatre is the second oldest professional theatre in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and is celebrating its 49th season of presenting high quality, professional entertainment in 2010-2011. Single tickets, subscription packages and group packages can be obtained by calling the Box Office at (540) 869-1776. Additional information can be obtained on the theatre's website at www.waysidetheatre.org. Wayside Theatre is located in Middletown, Virginia on Route 11, Main Street, just north of the intersection of I-66 and I-81.