Hamilton star Ash Hunter plays Macbeth as Leeds Playhouse bring back their acclaimed take on the Bard’s portrayal of a flawed man who will do whatever it takes to gain power and ultimately the throne.
Hunter played Alexander Hamilton in the hit West End musical in 2018/19 before going on to star as Heathcliff in Emma Rice’s acclaimed production of Wuthering Heights at the National Theatre. His TV credits include Netflix mega hit Bridgerton, Alma’s Not Normal, Grace, The Trial of Christine Keeler and Death in Paradise.
Jessica Baglow returns as Lady Macbeth who she played when the production was first staged at the Playhouse in 2022. She has worked extensively in theatre, film and TV since childhood, appearing as a series regular in both ITV’s Where The Heart Is and the BBC’s Waterloo Road.
“Macbeth is a rich, exciting and rewarding play to direct, particularly when you’re blessed with such an incredible company of actors and creatives who bring drive, energy and complete commitment to everything they do,” says Amy Leach, who also returns as Director of Macbeth.
“Together, we are creating a richly-rendered world designed to grip an audience from the moment the lights go down.”
The cast also includes: Adam Bassett as Macduff, Charlotte Arrowsmith as Lady Macduff/Witch, Benjamin Cawley as Ross, Aosaf Afzal as Duncan/Doctor/Murderer, Paul Brown as Lennox, Karina Jones as Witch/Gentlewoman, Shahbaaz Khan as Malcolm/Murderer, Daniel Poyser as Banquo, and Elkanah Wilder as Witch/Messenger.
When Macbeth was first staged in 2022 the Playhouse welcomed 69 school groups from across Yorkshire, introducing more than 5,000 students to the lasting resonance of the play, and giving many of them their first electrifying experience of live theatre.
The Playhouse has added even more school-friendly matinee performances this time around and is offering schools a programme of resources and activities connected with the production to bring additional depth and breadth to students’ appreciation of this classic play.
Macbeth is in the Quarry Theatre from 5th – 23rd March. To book 0113 213 7700 or www.leedsplayhouse.org.uk