North Thurston High School’s fall play, Bye Bye Birdie, was a hit, but now NTHS drama takes a darker turn to Shakespeare’s 17th century classic, the tragic tale of Macbeth. Leading man Victor Worrell (who also starred in Birdie) will play Macbeth in the winter production. He is sharing the stage with Isabella Hoffman as Lady Macbeth. Senior Eric Suarez will be stage manager and is eager to tackle this immense theatrical challenge.
Recently, a film version of Macbeth was released. The film was praised for Michael Fassbender’s depiction of the power-hungry Scot, challenging the NTHS production to step up it’s game. After auditions on December 9, 15 people were cast for the roles, including drama regulars Corynn Carignan (as Ross), Dylan Eckstein (as Banquo), and Richard Nava (as King Duncan). New faces, including Timothy Johnson (Donalbain) and Nicolle Smith (multiple roles) are making their stage debuts beside these seasoned thespians, however it’s hard to tell veteran from novice. Rehearsals are underway daily as swords are designed, crowns are crafted, and gowns are sewn.
How does the department put on such an elaborate show with a small budget? They utilize many money-stretching tricks to make it all work, but you will never notice when viewing the final product. Many props, sets, and costumes are either repurposed from previous shows or found at thrift stores. Loosely knit sweaters have a very chainmail-esque appearance once spray-painted silver. Metal ductwork sections provide sturdy bases for crowns and the telephone booths of Bye Bye Birdie are repainted as stony castle walls. Authentic elements such as real branches are added to the set, giving dimension to the stage.
The creativity is flowing, especially from Shakespeare fans. “It’s my favorite of Shakespeare’s works,” says Veronica Emmerson, stepping out from her regular backstage work to take a place on stage. “I think this will be our most epic play yet.” Veronica, a junior and drama veteran, has been instrumental in the creation of the production.
She usually prefers to stay behind the scenes working on accessories, but her passion for Macbeth inspired her to audition. Playing multiple roles and sporting even more costume changes, Veronica is nervous but optimistic. “I’ve never done this before. I don’t feel confident about acting,” she admits. She knows most of the play by heart, though, and is clearly thrilled about drama leader Ms. Kathrine Deneen’s choice of plays.
The cast has undergone many challenges. Recently, the actress originally cast to portray
Lady Macbeth had to drop out due to a family emergency. Following this, the whole team was reorganized and some have been recast. Junior Isabella Hoffman, who played Lady Macbeth in a theater camp this past summer, stepped into the role just two weeks before performances are to begin. Fortunately, the actors and crew have been flexible and are quickly adapting to the change.
Backstage bustles just as much as onstage. Senior Nick Brown oversees work in the shop where wooden tree silhouettes are cut out and painters toil on the detailed castle brickwork. Veronica Emmerson chooses medieval jewelry and gems for the crowns. Bailey Boeholt, Skyler Wright, and Madison Zambrotto pick through the North Thurston costume shop and select items that will work for the actors. Juli Mulholland and others act as seamstresses creating original, homemade costumes.
The minutiae is presided over by Ms. Deneen who casts, designs and directs the production. As is true of every play, Macbeth showcases Deneen’s visions, brought to life by the North Thurston students. “Everyone is truly dedicated, and it’s been an immense pleasure,” Deneen says. “I’m looking forward to displaying the talent of my students and we hope to get a good turn-out for every performance.”
Work on the play began over six months ago, and everyone is ready to show off their hard work to family, friends and the community.
Performances are scheduled for February 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27 at 7:00 pm in the Koval Center for the Performing Arts. Regular admission is $7 and $5 with ASB, military ID, or senior discount.
