A unique version of Shakespeare’s Macbeth will be performed in the stunning grounds and ruins of Elgin Cathedral in Moray from 20 – 23 June 2007. The National Theatre of Scotland has been working in partnership with Historic Scotland, Moray Council and Moray High School pupils to produce The Elgin Macbeth, which will feature as part of Highland 2007, Scotland’s Year of Highland Culture. This site-specific production promises to bring the ruin of Elgin Cathedral back to life by exploring one of the most thrilling legends of Scottish history – Macbeth.

Involving eighty performers, including a professional and community cast and local schoolchildren, this large-scale production will re-imagine Macbeth for a modern audience. Local folklore stories have been devised by participants and these will be performed alongside Shakespeare’s text in addition to sound, art, drama and music installations, Gaelic singing, drumming, music and dance.

How much of Shakespeare’s depiction of Macbeth was accurate and how much was spin to flatter the reigning king? Where does the story of the man end and the myth begin? The Elgin Macbeth will investigate these issues upon a stage at the heart of the real Macbeth’s Fiefdom, Elgin Cathedral, in a quest to reveal the truth about Macbeth.

The Elgin Macbeth performances in June mark the culmination of a twenty-two week project which sees NTS Learn working with pupils from Milnes, Elgin, Lossiemouth, Speyside and Buckie High Schools in Moray. Using a wide range of artforms, they have created an original collection of visual, sound and art work. Focusing on some of the timeless issues posed by conflict, as explored by Shakespeare in Macbeth, these installations will examine the impact of war on family life and relationships. A selection of this work will also be housed as installations within Elgin Cathedral for visitors to the Cathedral during the daytime to enjoy. There will be a chance to see a preview of this work when it is exhibited in two venues in Moray from 23- 24 May 2007 and admittance to these exhibitions is free.

Following the production in Elgin this June and marking the 950th anniversary of Macbeth’s death in battle on 16th August 1057, BBC Radio 4 is broadcasting five programmes entitled Macbeth Re-mixed, to be transmitted daily at 3.45pm from Monday 13th to Friday 17th August 2007. Macbeth Re-mixed takes five iconic images from Shakespeare’s Macbeth and gives them a 21st century re-interpretation and re-investigation along with the help of historians and the National Theatre of Scotland.

The cast for The Elgin Macbeth are Richard Conlon as Macbeth, Anita Vettesse as Lady Macbeth, Harry Ward as Macduff, Kirstin McLean as Lady Macduff and Robert Jack as the Porter and other roles.

The production is directed by Simon Sharkey with design by Francis Gallop, lighting design by Paul Claydon, sound design by David Martin, video design by Graeme Roger, community cast direction by Chris Lee, visual arts installation led by Geoff Roberts and choreography by Jeni Herbert.


“The Elgin Macbeth promises to radically re-interpret ‘The Scottish Play’ and will stimulate participants, the local community and audience to look beyond Shakespeare’s illustrious text to the man who inspired it.”
Simon Sharkey, Director of The Elgin Macbeth
Associate Director – Learn, National Theatre of Scotland

“We are delighted to be working with the National Theatre of Scotland on this wonderful production. Elgin Cathedral is one of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval buildings with a magnificence that is breathtaking to all who visit. As the production will utilise many different areas of the cathedral, the performances will be able to draw on the awe-inspiring atmosphere within, heightening the drama for both the actors and the audience.”
Nick Finnigan, Events and Filming Manager, Historic Scotland

"The Elgin Macbeth is a fantastic opportunity for local people to experience a unique performance in a unique setting. Given Macbeth’s status as a historical Moray figure, this production will, I'm sure, capture the imagination of both audience and participants alike."
Nick Fearne, Arts Development Officer, Moray Council

“It is really exciting to see The Elgin Macbeth project come to fruition, bringing a world-class production to this spectacular setting here in the Highlands. It has been an excellent example of partnership working, linking local support in Moray with the National Theatre of Scotland.”
Fiona Hampton, Director of Highland 2007


LISTINGS INFORMATION

The Elgin Macbeth
Venue: Elgin Cathedral
Dates & times: Wed 20- Sat 23 June, 8.30pm
Tickets: £12/ £8/ £5
Box Office: In person from Elgin Cathedral
Online:  www.thebooth.co.uk  

The Elgin Macbeth Moray Installations
Venues & dates:
Wed 23 May: The Warehouse Theatre, Pitgaveny Quay, Lossiemouth, IV31 6TW
Thu 24 May: Fleming Hall, Queens Road, Aberlour, AB3 9PR
Time: 7.00 -9.00pm
Tickets: Free entry

NOTES TO AUDIENCES
Audiences are advised to wear appropriate clothing for an outdoor event and are welcome to bring their own refreshments.

For further information about The Elgin Macbeth please contact Toni O’Neill at the National Theatre of Scotland on 0141 227 9013 or email toni.oneill@nationaltheatrescotland.com  

For further information on NTS Learn and to interact with NTS Learn resources, please visit www.nationaltheatrescotland.com/learn  

In partnership with Historic Scotland, Moray Council, Highland 2007 and pupils from Lossiemouth, Elgin, Milnes, Speyside and Buckie High Schools

PARTNER WEBSITES
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk  
www.moray.gov.uk
www.highland2007.com