A western suburbs theatre group is marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death with a gender-flipped version of the Bard’s most famous tragedy.
The wit incorporated production portrays a nation of powerful women and subservient men thrown into turmoil by Queen Duncan’s murder.
Company manager and co-founder Jennifer Piper says women in theatre are too often shallow stereotypes and it’s time for a move to greater diversity on the stage.
“We’re starting with gender, because it’s the closest thing to our own experience. We can’t wait to work with other members of Melbourne’s amazing theatre industry to bring even more diversity to the stage in the future.”
Artistic director and fellow co-founder Belinda Campbell says playing Macbeth has made her ponder how people learn their place.
“A good story works, regardless of the gender of the characters.”
Director Jennifer Innes says Macbeth explores the same struggles people still face.
“The themes of ambition, corruption, greed, power still move us, because they are universal.”
Macbeth will run at Footscray’s Bluestone Church Arts Space from August 12-27.
Maribyrnong residents can have free tickets to the Thursday preview, August 11, by emailing hello@witinc.com.au with ‘Free Macbeth’ in the subject line.
Include name, address and phone number.
Tickets $28/25 via witinc.com.au/whats-on/macbeth.
