PioneerValley.org

The Massachusetts Center for Renaissance Studies at the

University of Massachusetts Amherst and the Renaissance Center Theatre Company

will present
Macbeth on Oct. 10, 11, 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. and on Oct. 12 and 19 at

2 p.m. All performances will be held in the black box theatre on the grounds of the

Renaissance Center.

Director Nathaniel Leonard, a PhD Student in English Literature at the

University of Massachusetts Amherst, will emphasize Macbeth’s complex family

relationships and deeply human interactions more than the supernatural and epic

elements of the plot. In this production of William Shakespeare’s Scottish Play the

performers seek to give the characters a depth that is often overlooked, especially

with regard to the iconic Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. The intimacy of the

performance space highlights the humanity and violence that characterize the text

and production.

Mr. Leonard has assembled a cast from around the Pioneer Valley and

Berkshires. The title role of Macbeth will be played by North Adams’ Main Street

Stage veteran and 2008 Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts graduate Sean

McHugh. Amherst College Concert and Production Manager Sara Leonard will

perform the role of Lady Macbeth. Jonathan Turbin, also previously seen at Main

Street Stage, will play Macduff. The cast is rounded out by local celebrity and

pioneer valley stage veteran Walter Carroll (Duncan, First Murderer, Seyton) and

students from across Western Massachusetts. University of Massachusetts Amherst

is represented by first year students Tom Gostanian (Malcolm) and Paul Devlin

(Banquo, Lennox). Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts junior Ryan Ross will play

Ross. Amherst College sophomores Kathryn Libby (First Witch, Lady Macduff,

Donalbain, Doctor) and Natasha Smith (Second Witch, Messenger, Servant

Attendant, Gentlewoman) are joined by Amherst Regional Middle School 8
th Grader

Gabrielle Holme‐Miller (Third Witch, Fleance, Macduff’s son, Lord) to comprise the

“weird sisters.” Mr. Leonard has previously directed for the Edinburgh Fringe

Festival and Kenyon College.

Tickets are $15 for the general public and $10 for students and seniors.

Reservations are not required but are highly recommended as seating is limited. For

more information or to reserve your tickets call 413/577‐3600 or email

renaissance@english.umass.edu
. All performances will take place at the

Massachusetts Center for Renaissance Studies at 650 E. Pleasant Street, Amherst,

Mass. 01002.

This is the fourth major event in the Renaissance Center’s Year of

Shakespeare marking their tenth year of service to the University of Massachusetts

Amherst community. Special programming throughout the year will be generously

supported by the Office of the Provost of the University, and by sponsor 88.5 FM –

WFCR, NPR News and Music for Western New England. The Massachusetts Center

for Renaissance Studies contributes to the field of Renaissance studies with

research, teaching and outreach to the campus, the community and beyond