When Georgia Classic Theatre’s production of “Macbeth” comes to Oglethorpe University’s Conant Performing Arts Center this weekend, audiences will see more than a classic Shakespeare tragedy. They’ll see a partnership that provides current students with the opportunity to perform alongside seasoned professionals.
The production, presented Sept. 12-13 by Georgia Classic Theatre, celebrates Oglethorpe’s long history as a home for Shakespeare performance in Atlanta. The partnership recently received additional attention when Oglethorpe’s Matt Huff and Georgia Classic Theatre Artistic Director Allen O’Reilly appeared on WSB-TV’s “People 2 People” to discuss the production and the opportunities it creates for students. During the interview, Huff and O’Reilly highlighted how the production reconnects Oglethorpe with a rich theatrical tradition that entertained Atlanta audiences for decades through Georgia Shakespeare’s longtime residency on campus.
LEARNING FROM THE PROFESSIONALS
Several Oglethorpe students are participating in “Macbeth,” gaining firsthand experience working alongside professional actors, directors and fight choreographers while contributing to a major theatrical production.
For Lee Harper II ’29, OU Theatre Scholar and a theatre major with a film and media studies minor, the experience has reinforced lessons learned both in and outside the classroom.
“Oglethorpe has prepared me for this moment by not only showing me what it takes to be on top of everything but also nothing is perfect,” said Harper. “Just like the characters in Macbeth, there is a strange beauty in the flaws of man which I brought to my audition.”
Harper says the production is helping him continue working toward his goal of becoming a professional actor.
“With the help of this wonderful cast, I am learning to be more confident in myself and trust that the skills I’ve acquired will help me, as well as not being afraid to try something new,” he said.
Communication studies major and theatre minor Niles Torrance ’27, who will play Macbeth’s chief servant, Seyton, discovered the opportunity through an unexpected encounter while working with Oglethorpe’s events team over the summer.
“During a shift in the theatre I bumped into the play’s director Elisa Carlson who shared her vision with me and invited me to audition,” said Torrance. “Oglethorpe prepared me for this position by not just giving me knowledge of theatre as an art form but also allowing me to take on positions such as assistant director and dramaturg.”
Working alongside professional performers has already accelerated his learning experience.
“In just two rehearsals, we as students have analyzed our characters in depth and have been taught intricate fight choreography that would normally take several days,” Torrance said.
For first-year student Oliver Sferratore ’30, who plays Macduff’s son, the production represents a chance to participate in a tradition he has long admired.
“Knowing the history of Georgia Shakespeare, I was thrilled to get the opportunity to participate in the revival production of Macbeth. Even just having the opportunity to audition was incredible,” Sferratore said.
He described the return of many familiar faces from Oglethorpe’s Shakespeare legacy as one of the most meaningful parts of the experience. For Sferratore, the opportunity to work alongside experienced artists has reinforced his desire to pursue acting professionally.
“Acting is my passion and something I absolutely want to pursue in the future. Getting professional acting experience right here at Oglethorpe, especially with Georgia Classic Theatre, is just one step closer to where I want to be in the future,” he said.
Other members of the student cast include Lily Al-Bilali ’27, Claudia Walker ’30, Theo Weber ’30 and Violet Green ’30.
BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ARTISTS
The production also reflects Oglethorpe’s commitment to arts experiences that connect students with Atlanta’s professional creative community. By sharing the stage with veteran performers whose careers were shaped by the university’s historic relationship with Shakespeare, students gain practical experience that bridges classroom learning and professional practice.
“As this show opens, I hope everyone is able to see the hearts and passion of everyone involved, both on stage and behind the scenes,” said Harper.
‘MACBETH’ TICKETS
“Macbeth” will be performed in Oglethorpe University’s Conant Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Sept. 12, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 13, at 2 p.m. A “pay what you can” dress rehearsal performance will also be offered on Saturday, Sept. 12, at 2 p.m.
Tickets are available through Georgia Classic Theatre.
