The acclaimed Actors from the London Stage (AFTLS), a self-directed ensemble of five professional British actors, will present William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” in the Anne Belk Theater of the Robinson Hall for the Performing Arts Wednesday through Saturday, March 18-21; shows start at 7:30 p.m.
These performances are part of a national tour for this production with stops at Texas A&M University, Valparaiso University, Principia College, Vassar College and the University of Wyoming. The ensemble will be in residency at UNC Charlotte March 16-21.
In “Macbeth,” Shakespeare’s famous witches plant an idea in the mind of a Scottish warrior and his power-hungry wife. Through blood and betrayal, the corrupted couple will uproot a nation and threaten the lives of thousands. Unless good men stand in the face of tyranny, “something wicked this way comes.” The infamous “Scottish play” is both a cautionary tale and a parable for modern times. “Macbeth” is quick, raw and remarkably relevant. Parental discretion is advised.
Members of the ensemble include tour veterans Michael Palmer (Macbeth, English Doctor, Murderer) and Charles Armstrong (Duncan – King of Scotland, Macduff, Angus, Second Witch, Murderer). Joining them will be Annie Aldington (Donalbain, Ross, Menteth, Fleance, Lady Macbeth, Third Witch), Joanna Bending (Bloody Soldier, Old Man, Malcolm, Cathness, Lady Macduff, First Witch, Murderer, Gentlewoman), and Ben Warwick (Banquo, Lennox, Seyward, Son of Macduff, Scottish Doctor, Porter).
Actors from the London Stage is the national outreach program of Shakespeare at Notre Dame. Founded by Homer "Murph" Swander and world-renowned actor Sir Patrick Stewart, AFTLS celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2015. Both a unique educational program and an actor-driven tour de force, AFTLS actors hail from such prestigious companies as Shakespeare’s Globe, the National Theatre of Great Britain and the Royal Shakespeare Company. During their weeklong residency at UNC Charlotte, AFTLS actors will also visit dozens of classrooms.
Tickets for “Macbeth” are $18 for the general public, $9 for seniors and UNC Charlotte faculty and staff and $6 for all students. They can be purchased at the Robinson Hall Box Office, by phone at (704) 687-1849 or online.