playbill vip

Macbeth is a tragedy based on historical events as recorded in the Holinsheds Chronicles of England, Scotland, and Ireland and George Buchanan’s Rerum Scoticarum Historia. It is known to be a wildly inaccurate portrayal of figures like Macbeth, Banquo, Macduff, and Duncan, all of whom actually existed in 11th century Scotland. Much of the homage to Scottish history and mysticism are traced to King James I, royal patron of the Globe Theater, who claimed to be directly descended from Banquo.

We have juxtaposed the events in Macbeth in a modern setting. Instead of Scottish noblemen, the characters are a part of the local metal scene in a mid-sized city. Duncan's band, eagegae, has the largest following of any of the bands in the city, and has recently gained attention from record executives. Meanwhile, Macbeth's band is still fighting to gain respect. At the opening of the show, they are preparing to play in a Battle of the Bands at Dunsinane, the main hangout of the city's metal scene.

Above you will find translation of major references to Scottish people and places to our modern setting.