Santa Maria Sun / Art

The Scottish play comes to PCPA

BY SHELLY CONE

PCPA Theaterfest will present the William Shakespeare play Macbeth in the Marian Theatre Feb. 18 through March 7. The tale of a Scottish heir’s fall from grace, through spellbound seduction and the unrestrained pursuit of power, Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most popular tragedies. The play follows Macbeth’s triumph, the bloody assassination that gains him the crown but costs him his soul, and his ultimate demise.

Directed by Patricia M. Troxel—who said that while Shakespeare incorporated elements of the supernatural, the story remains an examination of human foibles and the study of moral conflict driven by fear, ambition, and aspiration—PCPA’s production of Macbeth features Resident Artists Corey Jones in the title role and Elizabeth Stuart as the ruthless Lady Macbeth. Also featured are Peter S. Hadres as one of the three Wyrd Sisters, Michael Jenkinson as Malcolm, Mark Booher as Banquo, Evans Eden Jarnefeldt as Macduff, and Karin Hendricks as Lady Macduff. Lompoc teacher and resident Michael Tremblay is guest artist appearing in the role of Ross.

PCPA’s production of this Shakespeare tragedy features scenic design by Dave Nofsinger, who uses environmental elements that will place the audience in the heart of the action. Costume Designer Frederick P. Deeben provides 9th and 10th century period fashion distinguishing the characters in rank, social status, gender, and nationality. Lighting Designer Jennifer “Z” Zornow integrates texture, color, and isolation to enhance the paradox of good and evil that resonates in the heart of the play. Elisabeth Rebel’s sound design was inspired by the playwright, who indicated the crucial role of sound in the telling of his story. Making that immediate and direct experience come to life for the audience, the production will incorporate music from an on-stage percussionist, Robert B. Pollard.