Topic: College of Fine Arts
January 29, 2010
Students Brett Lichnerowicz and Josh Jeffers show off their combat skills in preparation for the production of Macbeth opening Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m.
Tragedy and loyalty come together in Ball State University's portrayal of the Shakespeare classic "Macbeth," which opens on the University Theatre stage Feb. 11 at 7:30 p.m. It will also be performed at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12-13 and 17-20, with a matinee scheduled at 2:30 p.m. Feb. 14.
Directors Wendy Mortimer and Drew Vidal see "Macbeth"-one of Shakespeares best-known works-as a multilayered story with timeless appeal.
"Macbeth is a story not only of ambition, but also of marriage, the deep bond of family, loyalty to one's comrades and country," Mortimer said. "We find this story is at once ancient and timeless in its human expectation that the gods/God will hear our prayers and desires."
Three witches foresee the character Macbeth's future as a nobleman, followed by a rise to king of Scotland. Instead of waiting for these prophecies to develop on their own, Macbeth, with the help from his wife, Lady Macbeth, take destiny into their own hands. What follows is death and heartache for all who cross Macbeth's path. William Shakespeare wrote "Macbeth" at the beginning of the 1600s, and as proof of its appeal, the story continues to be retold today on stages across the world.
Students have been working on the play for a month. Mortimer and Vidal are thrilled to be working so closely with students.
"Academic theater is an extension of the classroom, and as such, functions as both a teaching tool and an artistic endeavor," Vidal said. "It is exciting to work with students who are encountering the play, and Shakespeare, for the very first time."
Tickets for the performance cost $12.50 for the general public, $11.50 for faculty and staff, $9.50 for senior citizens, and $6.50 for students. They are available from the University Theatre Box Office, open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Contact the box office at 765-285-8749 or visit www.bsu.edu/theatre for more information.
Upcoming shows include:
· "My Fair Lady" – 7:30 p.m. March 25-27, March 30-April 3 and 2:30 p.m. March 28 and April 3. Ball State's stage will transform into the heart of England with this rendition of the classic "My Fair Lady." Eliza Doolitte and Professor Henry Higgins will light up the stage with song and laughter in the musical Audrey Hepburn made famous.
· "An Evening with the Arts" – 7:30 p.m. April 28-May 1. When it comes to the spring production of "An Evening with the Arts," it's not just an evening with theatrics but also an evening with painting, sculptures, literature and an assortment of different fine arts.
By Samantha Irons