Original Practice Shakespeare Festival presents “The Tragedie of Macbeth”

Original Practice Shakespeare Festival offers a free presentation of “The Tragedie of Macbeth” at 7 p.m. July 16 at Laurelhurst Park, Southeast Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard and Stark Street, Portland. The company uses the original practice techniques of Elizabethan England: limited rehearsal, scrolls in hand, audience interaction, and an onstage prompter. Gender-fluid casting (just like in Ye Olde Shakespearean Days) is the norm.

To sum up the plot: Scottish lords Macbeth and Banquo meet witches who predict Macbeth will be King and Banquo father of kings. Lady Macbeth persuades Macbeth to kill King Duncan. Prince Malcolm escapes and Macbeth takes the throne. Macbeth orders Banquo killed. Lady Macbeth goes mad. Malcolm raises an English army that defeats Macbeth.

The Original Practice Shakespeare Festival performs all 25 plays in its repertory over the summer at 11 different Portland parks, with no admission fee. The company of skilled, flexible actors will perform with occasional interruptions of songs, dances and sketches. Shows usually begin at 7 p.m. and the audience is welcome to arrive during the hour before to watch dance and fight rehearsals. Children and leashed dogs are welcome. Picnic meals are encouraged. To see the complete summer schedule, visit www.opsfest.org.