Shakespeare in the grass: Aurora school to stage outdoor takeoff on Macbeth July 12-13

Rehearsals are underway for “Beth: The American Telling of the Scottish Play,” an outdoor production at Aurora Central High School.

The takeoff on Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” will be performed outdoors at 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, July 12-13, at the school, 1255 Edgelawn Drive in Aurora. The production culminates an 11th annual drama camp led by Phil Nohl, the school’s drama director. In case of inclement weather, the play will be moved indoors.

Nohl said his comedy is adapted from Shakespeare’s “Macbeth,” but with witches, Americana and one-quarter the running time.

Performers include students from Aurora, DeKalb, St. Charles and Sandwich.

While “Beth” is unpublished, other works by Nohl and colleague Kathy Martin have been published by Pioneer Drama and performed over 800 times around the United States.

Attendees should bring lawn chairs or blankets to sit on. Seating will include sections for blankets and chairs.

Concessions will be available. Admission is $5. Parking is free.

Cast members are:

• Aurora: Anthony Gustafson, Ren Tranchita, Danielle Tranchita, Marissa Masciola, Theo Wiesner, Logan Hepke, Mel Wiesner, Belle Rohlwing, Catie Houck, Natalia Cruz, Danyela Ortiz, Jenn Nohl, Kaylie Masciola, and Claire Rufa

• DeKalb: Molly Manhart

• St. Charles: Navalth Wolnick

• Sandwich: Caleb Reynolds, Samantha Reynolds

For information, visit central.aurorak12.org.