Ashbrook Classical Theater presenting “Macbeth” Nov. 17-19 and Dec. 1, Dec. 3

ASHLAND, Ohio – The Ashbrook Classical Theater Company is presenting two runs of “Macbeth,” the first taking place this weekend, Nov. 17-19, at Ashland University’s Studio Theatre in the College of Fine Arts and the second at the Ashland Theatre (212 Center St.) on Dec. 1 and Dec. 3.

This Friday and Saturday, Nov. 17-18, performances will start at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday, Nov. 19, will be a matinee starting at 1 p.m. The shows at the Ashland Theatre are scheduled for Friday, Dec. 1, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 3, at 1 p.m. All performances are free and open to the public.

“Macbeth,” one of William Shakespeare’s most famous and popular plays, is partly based on a true historical account. Set in medieval Scotland, it follows the title character’s rise to power and tragic downfall while exploring the psychological and physical effects of ambition.

Directing this production of “Macbeth” is Sabrina Maristela, student programs coordinator of the Ashbrook Center, and students playing lead roles are Heath Johnston, Leanna Uselton, Anna Bielawski and Ray Yeh.

Maristela noted that the Ashbrook Classical Theater Company chose to perform “Macbeth” this year because Nov. 19 marks the 160th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address” and “Macbeth” was Lincoln’s favorite play. Lincoln once said, “Nothing equals Macbeth. It is wonderful.”

“The Ashbrook Classical Theater Company has been such a joy to direct over the past few years because it helps give students a place to put all of the things they learn in class into practice. Not only does classical theater require some serious textual analysis from the students, but spending time on great works of art with people you care about just for the sake of working toward something good is really awesome,” added Maristela. “Plus, the arts are a really important part of a liberal education. AU has such a strong tradition in the fine arts, and we’re really excited to be part of that landscape.”

The Ashbrook Center, established in 1983, is an independent academic center located at Ashland University. Named in honor of the late Congressman John M. Ashbrook, its mission is to strengthen constitutional self-government by educating students, teachers and citizens in the history and founding principles of the United States.

Ashland University is a mid-sized, private university conveniently located a short distance from Akron, Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. Ashland University (www.ashland.edu) values the individual student and offers a unique educational experience that combines the challenge of strong applied academic programs with a faculty and staff who build nurturing relationships with their students.