Modern Macbeth Script-writing & Performance

Overview:  As a class, we are going to put on a production of Macbeth by William Shakespeare.  We decided to give the tale a modern take, which include a soundtrack and costumes. Below, you will find groups and the full criteria for this assignment.

Directions:  In this blog space, please compose a 200 word idea for a modern concept.  We will read our classmates' posts and come-up with a class consensus.  I look forward to embarking on this journey with you.

Documentary on the making of Titus (1999)

Assigned Groups and Assignments: Below are the group assignments. ACTS I and II and ACTS III and IV may work together, but I want to make sure ensure everyone is taking a active role in the entire assignment.

Hannah Montana: Haley, Maddy, Maggie, Grace, Christina, Nicole, Michelle

Cowboys: Ben P., Matt, Jack, Tristan, Alex, David C.

Star Wars: Parker, Ben W., David B., Nick, Paul, Farshad

Due Dates and Timeline: 

Script Writing: Thursday, January 23rd, Friday, January 24th, & Tuesday, January 28th

Rehearsals: Wednesday, January 29th

Performances: Friday, January 31st

Company Name: The Admirals Men were a theatre troupe in Shakespeare’s day. Give yourselves a name. Something that says, “Hey, we know our Shakespeare. Hire us, okay?” Also, find a way for you all to communicate, either through social media or Google Docs. 

Ten-minute Shakespeare Script: Each group will give a cross section of the play in its entirety. You must construct a script using major passages and your own dialogue to fill in the gaps. Use the link to the entire play to cut and paste material into your script. Think: 50% Shakespeare and 50% personal voice.  Be creative. Be thoughtful about your choices. Remember that you have to perform this play in class so do not make it too difficult. It is a play so do not change locations too often (It is not a screenplay). Think about the BIG lines. The poetry. The soliloquies. The scripts should be 8-10 pages in length. Include stage directions and description of setting. Make it a working document for you rehearsals. Please post a copy for me on Turnitin.com to read over as you perform.

Rehearsals: You have a script ready to go! Congratulations! Begin your rehearsals. I want to see full participation at all times. Please keep the following in mind:

Director: Someone needs to run the show. You may elect a director or one may emerge naturally.

Casting: Everyone should have a role in this production. Go with your strengths. You may choose to have some students work more with the script and take a smaller acting role and vice versa. If you do not have enough group members for your performance, please be creative. You can double up. You can merge characters (For example, Ross may be enough for updates). Be thoughtful about this process.

Memorization: Try to learn your lines. Read them over and over until you have them down. When you perform, ad-libbing some of the lines will be fine. If you want to use note cards or use actor’s tricks, feel free. However, I have faith in your ability to make this production look and feel authentic.

Costumes and Props: Choose cool costumes and props!  No imaginary swords, please (light sabers are fine).  Feel free to bring your own. Try to make the piece as authentic as possible.

Set Design and musical production. Be aware of the room. How should it look on the day of your performance?  You may use music and video for the background.  Someone can be in charge of this area.

Performances: Please give yourself time to set-up. If you need to come to the room early, do so. You must troubleshoot music and/or video equipment during the rehearsal process. If you are sick or cannot make it, you need to make the necessary arrangements with your group and Mr. Pellerin. Treat this assignment with the same respect as an exam. If you leave your group high and dry on performance day with no phone call or explanation, expect an F on the assignment.