Students bring to life Shakespearean classic

Macbeth is coming to Moses Lake High School.

Opening Thursday, and running until May 15, the Shakespearean story of ambition, murder and ruthlessness in 11th century Scotland will bring a touch of history to the MLHS stage.

Armed with a mixture of experienced student-actors and novices, director Donn Hendrixson is optimistic about the three-night run of 7 p.m. performances.

"It's a great cast," Hendrixson said. "They are all very courageous and resilient."

Resiliency has come in handy, as the cast has encountered several hurdles on their way to Opening Night. A number of students have had to leave the production and had to be replaced.

Still, Hendrixson bets on the success of the play, although he said that as far as playwrights go, Shakespeare is an acquired taste.

"Maybe this is not something people can cling on to right away," he said. "But it is a story that is strong and powerful."

Hendrixson, having directed more than 50 school plays, said that it is a challenge for him to convince the new that they can be part of a play.

This is the first Shakespeare play that Hendrixson's crew will take to the stage, after a series of comedies, including "Guys and Dolls."

The reason for the switch, he said, is that he wanted something different for his actors in order for them and for the audience to learn from the performances.

"Students gain an appreciation for it." he said.