What's Happening in Merced, CA…

William Shakespeare’s Macbeth is coming to the Merced Theatre this fall.

Under the direction of Henry Flores, this iteration of the classic tragedy features 30 actors from the Merced area, with producers, stage managers, and designers helping to bring the story to life.

Coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Merced Theatre, of which Flores is also the associate artistic director, this production of Macbeth highlights the themes of the play that still resonate to this day.

The cast includes Albert Martinez as Macbeth, Rachel Battisti as Lady Macbeth, Scott Kaul as Macduff, Cambria Browne as Lady Macduff, Jim Kocher as Duncan, Ezra Cruz as Malcolm, and Niara Jones as Donalbain.

The dark and violent story that serves as a cautionary tale for ambition centers on the titular Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. Their shared thirst for the crown brings them down a road of destruction, even as enigmatic witches – played by Heike Hambley, Pamela Quesvedo, and Haley Paulissian – bolster Macbeth’s power-hungry ways. Even after they take the throne by force, the Macbeths are torn apart by the fear and paranoia that grips them.

Shakespearean plays like this may choose to use brochure printing to create audience programs and season schedules.

Macbeth is playing on November 13 and 14 at 7:30 pm, and on November 15 at 2:00 pm. It is all happening at the Kamangar Center at the Merced Theatre at 301 W Main St.