News Summary
Jobsite Theater in Tampa is gearing up for a unique take on Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’, featuring a diverse cast and innovative concepts. Opening tonight, the production boasts a blend of Afrofuturism and Pictish culture, promising an engaging experience for audiences. With veteran actors and meticulous technical design, this adaptation seeks to modernize the classic tragedy. Educational opportunities are also available for local students, making theater more accessible in the community.
Tampa’s Stage Set for a Daring Take on Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”
Tampa is buzzing with excitement as Jobsite Theater prepares to unveil its latest production, a bold adaptation of Shakespeare’s _Macbeth_. Known for its intense themes and dark narrative, this classic tragedy promises to be a riveting experience for theater-goers. The show opens tonight, January 15, 2025, and runs until February 9, 2025, at the Jaeb Theatre in the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.
Star Performers
Audiences are in for a treat as actors Giles Davies and Katrina Stevenson take on the iconic roles of Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. Both veterans of Jobsite Theater, they have built impressive resumes over the past decade, capturing audiences’ hearts with their powerful performances. Besides playing Lady Macbeth, Katrina also doubles as the production’s costume designer, ensuring that the show not only tells a gripping story but does so with flair and style. Meanwhile, Giles Davies showcases his expertise in translating and distilling Shakespearean language for modern audiences, making the complex dialogue accessible to everyone.
A Unique Creative Vision
This production is far from traditional, featuring a fascinating concept termed _Pictofuturism_. This intriguing blend takes inspiration from the well-known movement _Afrofuturism_ while weaving in motifs pertinent to Pictish culture from ancient Scotland. Under the direction of David Jenkins—a six-time winner of the illustrious Best of the Bay Awards—this creative adaptation ensures a visually stunning and thematically rich presentation.
Meet the Ensemble
The show boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Cornelio Aguilera, Troy Padraic Brooks, Logan Franke, Mon Lim, Jared Sellick, and Blake Smallen. This diverse group of performers comes together to bring the haunting story of ambition and betrayal to life in ways that resonate with today’s audiences. Their collective experience promises to elevate the production, creating a captivating environment for all who attend.
Technical Brilliance
From the moment the curtain rises, attendees will find themselves immersed in this fantastical world. The technical components of the show are crafted to mirror its unique concept while remaining loyal to Shakespeare’s original text. Every detail—from lighting to sound—has been meticulously designed to support the overall vision, making for an unforgettable experience.
Educational Opportunities
In addition to evening performances, Jobsite Theater is extending its reach to local high schools by hosting weekday field trip matinees. This initiative is part of a broader mission to introduce younger audiences to the world of Shakespeare, aiming to stir interest and appreciation for classical literature.
Accolades and Accessibility
Jobsite Theater has been recognized for its excellence, recently becoming a finalist for the NEA’s Shakespeare in American Communities Award. Such accolades underscore the importance of their work in bringing Shakespeare to life in captivating ways. Tickets for _Macbeth_ start at just $42, with special offers available for selected performances, ensuring that theater is accessible for everyone in the community.
Show Details
Preview performances kicked off on January 15 and 16, setting the stage for the full run, which features standard showings every Thursday to Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Each performance is poised to transport audiences into a realm of ambition, madness, and the supernatural.
Where to Get Tickets
For those eager to secure their seats for this thrilling production, tickets can be found on both the Straz Center website and Jobsite Theater’s official site. Prepare yourself for a theatrical experience that not only honors Shakespeare’s original intentions but also offers a fresh and modern spin on a timeless tale.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tampa Bay Launches $7.5 Million Educational Initiative
Shakespeare’s Macbeth to Premiere in Tampa 2025
Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst
- TBN Weekly
- Tallahassee.com
- ABC Action News
- WEAR TV
- Wikipedia: Macbeth
- Google Search: Shakespeare news
- Google Scholar: Macbeth
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Macbeth
- Google News: Shakespeare
