Local Shakespeare troupe to take on 'Macbeth'

Thu, Mar 27, 2008

Having just finished a run of Shakespeare's comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream," the Grand Haven-based Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company will take on one of the Bard's darkest tragedies, "Macbeth," for its second production of the 2008 season.

Performances will take place at the Grand Haven Area Arts Council, 1045 Columbus Ave., April 10-11 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2 p.m. on April 12.

The plot of "Macbeth" revolves around an ambitious Scottish warrior who receives a prophecy that he will become king. Unwilling to stand idly by and let the prophecy take his course, Macbeth — prompted by his equally ambitious wife — murders the reigning king and takes his place. The Macbeths discover, however, that nothing will ever make them truly secure in their new position of power, and that "blood will have blood." Violence and revenge spiral out of control as Macbeth's own evil actions threaten to overtake him.

Playing the title role is Ian Borden, a professor of theater at Grand Valley State University. Borden is also a certified instructor of stage combat and will choreograph the fights for this production.

Kathleen Hanley plays Lady Macbeth.

Rounding out the cast are Katie Bedard, Heather Folkvord, Josh King, Scott Lange, Lauryn Miceli, Joel Schindlbeck, Brie Roper, Scott Watson and Scott Wright. Many members of the cast recently appeared in "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and said they are enjoying the challenge of switching from comedy to tragedy.

Following their appearances at the Grand Haven Area Arts Council, the Pigeon Creek actors will take "Macbeth" on tour to Whitehall, Frankenmuth and Grand Rapids.

For tickets to the Grand Haven Area Arts Council performances, call the Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company at 850-0916. For more information about the company, visit www.pcshakespeare.com.

Pigeon Creek's 2008 season will continue in the summer months with productions of "Richard III" and "As You Like It."