Shakespeare returns to the local stage after a long absence when Juneau’s Theater in the Rough brings “Macbeth” to the Chilkat Center for a single show 7 p.m. Dec. 1.
Fourteen actors and technicians will stage the show, which recently played in the capital city.
Aaron Elmore, who co-directs the production and holds the show’s title role, said people unfamiliar with Shakespeare’s work may want to go to the show for the exciting fight scenes, gorgeous costumes, rich dialogue, and fantastic story line.
It’s also extremely funny at times, he said.
“If people have an interest in live theater, this is some of the best work we’ve every done,” Elmore said.
Novices may also recognize classic lines like “double, double, toil and trouble” and “by the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes.”
“Macbeth” is the story of a minor nobleman’s fall from grace, led astray by a quest for power. Scenes include violence, which may be frightening for young children.
Tom Heywood said he’s excited by the prospect of the show, as the group hasn’t hosted a Shakespeare production for five years or more. “We try to have a variety of acts and we don’t get Shakespeare that often, so it’s a big deal.”
Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students. There also will be a limited number of $25 tickets for a wine and cheese “director’s reception” before the play. Holders of those tickets should show up at 5:45 p.m. to hear insights into the production from director Elmore.
“Theater in the Rough” refers to the sets of shows used by the group, which tend to be minimalistic.