Macbeth, one of Shakespeare’s most haunting and timeless tragedies, is set to captivate audiences when the Australian Shakespeare Company brings to life this chilling tale of greed, ambition and betrayal.
From 31 January – 28 February 2025, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne will be transformed into the eerie beauty of the Scottish Highlands, setting the stage for Macbeth’s dark rise to power through murder, treachery, and supernatural forces.
On a barren heath, three sisters mystically appear and tell the great and bloodied Macbeth that he is fated to be King of Scotland. And so begins a terrifying series of events that lead to the murder of Kings, friends, mothers and their children. Macbeth and Lady Macbeth slowly fall prey to soul-corroding guilt as they desperately try to cling to the defiled crown.
The Australian Shakespeare Company Artistic Director, Glenn Elston OAM, said:
“The Royal Botanic Gardens provide the perfect stage for Macbeth—the natural beauty and open-air setting heighten both the tension and drama of the story. It’s an unforgettable way to experience Shakespeare under the stars and in a way that traditional theatres simply can’t match”
“Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most brutal and poetic creations. While it is the shortest of his dramas, it remains one of the most enduring. The themes of power, politics, and corruption remain as prevalent today as they did 400 years ago.”
Directed by Glenn Elston OAM, this powerful new production features Hugh Sexton (Rush, Pop-up Globe, Ghost Rider) as Macbeth and Nicole Nabout (The Clearing, Return to Paradise) as Lady Macbeth. They will be joined by an exceptional supporting cast including Dion Mills (Duncan), Anna Burgess (Malcolm), Callum O’Malley (Donalbain/Murderer), Johhny Light (Banquo), Jackson McGovern (Macduff), Kevin Hopkins (Lennox), Alex Cooper (Ross), Claire Duncan (Messenger), Eleanor Timms (Macduff’s daughter), Tony Rives (Seargent/Murderer/Seyton), Luke Lennox (Porter/Murderer), Madeleine Somers (Witch/Gentlewoman), Elizabeth Brennan (Witch/Macduff’s wife), Henny Walters (Witch) and Scott Middleton (Yong Siward).
This summer, audiences will experience Shakespeare’s darkest tragedy like never before. Patrons are encouraged to arrive early, grab a spot on the grass, relax and watch the sunset—before the witches come out to play.
The Australian Shakespeare Company is renowned for presenting top class, innovative and accessible productions in stunning locations featuring the country’s finest actors. Pioneering outdoor theatre, from humble beginnings in 1987 with The Wind in the Willows followed by Shakespeare Under the Stars, Glenn Elston OAM has built Australia’s largest independent theatre company. The summer productions have become a summer tradition for millions of Australians who revel in the great joy of theatre outdoors.
Macbeth is on now and runs until 28 February at the Royal Botanic Gardens, 100 Birdwood Avenue Melbourne. Located on the Southern Cross Lawn (enter through Observatory Gate on Birdwood Avenue).
Tickets are available here.
Website: https://www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/shakespeareaust/
Photo credits: Ben Fon
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