The North Coast Repertory Theatre continues its 31st Season with the tragedy Macbeth by William Shakespeare. The production opens at 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 22 with an opening night gala that includes a champagne reception after the show. The play tells the story of a brave Scottish general named Macbeth who, consumed by ambition and spurred to action by his wife, murders King Duncan and takes the throne for himself. The bloodbath and consequent civil war swiftly take Macbeth and Lady Macbeth into the realms of arrogance, madness, and death.

The production is directed by Calder Johnson who has been involved in theatre in Humboldt County for over a decade as director, designer and actor. Some of his more recent scenic design credits include M. Butterfly at HSU, and The Tempest, Anything Goes andOedipus The King at NCRT. Previous directing credits at NCRT include Much Ado About Nothing and Les Misérables.

The talented cast includes Sam Greenspan, Jo Kuzelka, Greta Stockwell, Megan Johnson, Alissa Barthel, Bob Service, Evan Needham and Scott Osborn. Scenery design is by Calder Johnson; lighting design by Telfer Reynolds; and costume design by Marissa Menezes. Kira Gallaway will stage-manage the production.

Macbeth opens at 8 p.m. on Thursday, January 22 with an opening night gala that includes a champagne reception after the show. This performance will also serve as a benefit for the cast and crew. All seats for opening night are $16.00. The performance on Friday, January 23 will be a benefit performance for the Haunted Mill Tour of Eureka; tickets are $20.00. The performance on Saturday, January 24 will be a benefit for North Coast Preparatory and Performing Arts Academy; tickets are $20.00. Regular ticket price of $16.00 for general admission and $12.00 for students and seniors will begin on Friday, January 30. The run will continue Fridays and Saturdays through February 14. There will be one additional regular Thursday performance on February 12. All evening performances begin at 8 p.m. There will be two matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Sundays February 1 and 8. NCRT is located at 300 Fifth Street, Eureka. For reservations, group rates, or more information, please call 442-NCRT (6278).