The upcoming showing of Macbeth is not Denison’s usual theatre production.
Most productions don’t enlist the expertise of a professional fight choreographer. And while Denison productions are typically selected by faculty, this season’s tragedy was brought to life because of student demand.
Assistant Theatre Professor Aviva Neff says faculty received a “firm yet respectful request” from a group of students last year, asking the department to consider a classical text, specifically a tragedy, in the vein of Macbeth.
“I happen to be a really big fan of the play,” says Neff, who is directing the production of Macbeth. “I love ghosts. I love witches. I love magic. I love a good sword fight.”
Recalling the success of another classic, Tartuffe, in Spring 2025, Neff saw Macbeth as another opportunity. Ultimately, the faculty agreed to the student request.
To truly honor that request, the production is “doubling down on the script.” The play is set in 11th-century Scotland, the era when the real Macbeth lived. The visual concept that Neff is bringing onstage is a folk horror take on the medieval world, complete with period-accurate dress and kilts.
The cast also is working with real steel weapons rather than lightweight props. The weaponry is so substantial that Neff recommended actors stretch and take care of their bodies just to get used to the physical strain of carrying a heavy shield.
To ensure the actors could handle the steel safely while bringing the intensity of the fights onstage, the department brought in professional fight choreographer Leo Santucci.
The cast underwent three weekends of specific fight choreography and safety training. This proved to be a massive benefit for the students, Neff says, offering them a chance to learn a specialized skill set that isn’t typically part of the curriculum.
The dedication to visceral storytelling creates an atmosphere that Neff describes as “intense” and “emotionally affective.”
Between the heavy steel, the folk horror aesthetic, and the classic story itself, Neff says of Macbeth, “It’s gonna be a wild ride.”
Macbeth
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Aviva Neff
‘False face must hide what the false heart doth know.’
Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy draws from real historical events, politics, and religious upheaval of 17th-century England, set against the backdrop of ancient Scotland. Journey through the Scottish highlands and experience the ambition, subterfuge, magic, and cycles of violence and vengeance that comprise the world of Macbeth.
Performance dates and times are as follows:
- 7 p.m., Thursday, March 5
- 7 p.m., Friday, March 6
- 2 p.m., Saturday, March 7
- 7 p.m., Saturday, March 7
- 2 p.m., Sunday, March 8
Location: Sharon Martin Hall, Eisner Center for the Performing Arts
This event is free and open to the public; however, tickets are required and may be obtained at artsatdenison.ludus.com.
