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  • John Mossman as Macbeth and Elizabeth Laidlaw as Lady Macbeth. Special to the Record-Eagle/DeAwna McGinley

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  • Lily Mojewku as Titania and Matt Kahler as Oberon in "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Special to the Record-Eagle/DeAwna McGinley

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July 22, 2011

'Macbeth,' 'Midsummer' in Frankfort

From staff reports ----

FRANKFORT — Lakeside Shakespeare Theatre returns to Frankfort to perform "Macbeth" and "A Midsummer Night's Dream."

The Chicago-based theater ensemble will perform its eighth season in Benzie County July 28-Aug. 5.

"Last year, we moved our production to the area of Frankfort known variously as Tank Hill or Forest Hill or the Old Ice Rink," said Elizabeth Laidlaw, artistic director.

"We chose this season last summer while performing, knowing these two plays -- "Macbeth" and "Midsummer" -- are so perfect for the Forest Hill setting," she said. "The surrounding woods are part of the set but also, in a sense, a major character in each play. In 'Macbeth,' the woods are a thrilling, haunting and dangerous presence, but in 'Midsummer,' they are home to magic and adventure and love and joy."

Forest Hill is just off M-22, 188 Park Ave., Frankfort. This year, there's a larger stage. The area is accessible to people with disabilities and audience members are encouraged to bring blankets, low beach chairs and picnics. Performances are held in all weather and begin at 7 p.m. Admission and parking is free, but a $12 donation is suggested.

Lakeside Shakespeare will hold a youth workshop Aug. 1-5; for more information or to sign up, go to www.lakesideshakespeare.org.

The ensemble is a collective of Chicago actors, directors and designers and was created to perform exclusively in Benzie County, where Laidlaw has family ties.

"Macbeth" will be performed Thursday, July 28; Saturday, July 30; Tuesday, Aug. 2; and Thursday, Aug. 4.

"A Midsummer Night's Dream" will be performed Friday, July 29; Sunday, July 31; Wednesday, Aug. 3; and Friday, Aug. 5.

Go to www.lakesideshakespeare.org or call the Benzie County Visitors Bureau, 882-5801.

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