Macbeth takes center stage

Performing Arts of Carson High School presents the powerful tragedy "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare at the Carson City Community Center, 851 E William St.

Performances are 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday and continue next weekend with performances at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 14 and 15, and at 2 p.m. on Jan. 16. A special performance for students will be offered Jan. 13 at 2:30 p.m.

"Macbeth" is one of Shakespeare's most acclaimed - and shortest - tragedies.

This is not a play for all ages, however. There is murder "most foul," witches doing evil things with a cauldron and sword fights to the death. And that's just part of the action.

But the play has long fascinated both audiences and theater folk. It offers some classic lines, such as "Lay on, MacDuff," and "Damn'd be him that first cries, 'Hold, enough!'"

And the classic, "Out, damned spot! out, I say," and "Macduff was from his mother's womb untimely ripp'd."

The play is based on a real King Macbeth of Scotland in the 11th century, but Shakespeare took many liberties. Historically, there's no poisoning of King Malcolm while he slept in Macbeth's castle. And the famous Battle of Birnam Wood is problematic.

But none of that spoils the awesome power of the play, in this case directed by Karen Chandler of Carson High School.

"It's a play that has everything - beauty, humor, fear, evil and action," said Chandler at final dress rehearsals as swords banged around on stage. "The men worked more than 20 hours on learning sword fighting."

The swords will be wood, made especially for the production. No real blood is needed.

"We've double-cast the play except for Macbeth - Ryan Bauder - and Banquo - Domenic Proccacini III.

"Jon Josten doubles in two roles as well. And Ashleigh Brantingham also doubles."

Lady Macbeth will be acted by Patty Capistrant and Samantha Sifuentes.

"We've worked to make the relationship between Lady Macbeth and Macbeth perhaps softer, warmer. She murders because she wants more for her husband."

"Macbeth" has been studied ever since it was first performed. Is it a study of the classic tragedy, the hero brought down by the Fates? Or is it the story of an evil person doing what his nature demands? Or again, is it just the way things were done at that time in Scotland? Probably all of the above and more.

After the performance, there will be time to decide the motives of this bloody king and his determined, murderous wife.

Tickets are $5 for children, $6 for students/senior citizens and $7 for general admission. Call 887-0438 for tickets and reservations.

Contact reporter Sam Bauman at sbauman@ nevadaappeal.com or 881-1236.