BELFAST — MidCoast Shakespeare Studio announces the cast of its upcoming summer production of (Lady) Macbeth, "set to thrill audiences with outdoor performances at Belfast City Park, from June 24 - 28," according to the Studio, in a news release.

The creative team at MidCoast Shakes, led by Artistic Director Kat Alix-Gaudreau, has created a unique adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. By combining the original text, historical source material, and theater devising techniques, this new adaptation explores the untold story of Lady Macbeth. According to the news release, the Studio hosted a staged reading last month where they received insightful feedback from community members and used that to further develop the script.

This ensemble cast brings together a dynamic mix of local talent and guest artists from across New England, continuing the Studio’s mission to create professional-level productions rooted in the heart of the MidCoast Maine community.

Under Alix-Gaudreau’s direction, the cast will engage in a collaborative process of staging the show, inviting actors to co-create the world of the play through improvisation, experimentation, and shared storytelling.

“The character of Lady Macbeth is based on a historical figure,” says Alix-Gaudreau, “but her story has been co-opted, not just by Shakespeare, but by our culture at large. Would we think about her differently if we knew her real story? We at MidCoast Shakespeare Studio feel that it is time to create a space within our community for her voice to be heard and to share that story.”

The cast includes several MidCoast Maine performers, including Jennifer Snow (Bangor) as Lady Macbeth, Roger Alix-Gaudreau (Belfast) as Macbeth, Laura Graham (West Gardiner) as First Witch, Violet Ferlito (Waterville) as Second Witch, Kathleen Reilly (Belfast) as Third Witch, Nicholas McMillan (Gardiner) as Macduff, Angelina Nichols (Sandy Point) as Lady Macduff, and Jordyn Woodward (Waterville) as Servant and Soldier.

Performances will take place outdoors at Belfast City Park, "providing a beautiful natural backdrop for this dramatic, impactful production," said the Studio. "Audiences are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and picnic fare to enjoy an unforgettable evening of theater under the summer sky."

Admission is free (donations accepted), in keeping with MidCoast Shakespeare Studio’s commitment to accessible, inclusive arts programming for all.

For more information about (Lady) Macbeth and the Summer Shakespeare Festival, visit www.midcoastshakes.com.