With rehearsals for Macbeth, Folger Theatre and Consort’s first production of the season, already underway, the Spotlight reached out to people in Public Programs division—the department of the Folger that encompasses Folger Theatre, Folger Consort, the O.B. Hardison Poetry Series, and all of our screenings and talks programming—to find out what they were most looking forward to in the coming year. We want to know from you, too—what are you most excited about? Tell us in the comments!
Macbeth Kicking Off the Season
It’s hard to select just one from our 2018/19 season. I am very excited to see this particular production of Macbeth. It’s my favorite Shakespeare play, so to see this Restoration-era adaptation, with period music integrated, and such a phenomenal cast, is incredibly exciting. It sounds like it will be a production that is unique to the Folger. I am also excited for our Walt Whitman celebration in June and Jessica Swale’s Nell Gwynn, which was an absolute delight to read—and extremely funny. Can’t wait to see it come to life on our stage!—Peter Eramo, Events Publicity and Marketing Manager
I’m looking forward to Macbeth because it takes the Folger’s world-class research and puts it on its feet; it’s a thrilling way to investigate the performance practices of the Restoration. But I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to next April’s Love’s Labor’s Lost. It was the first play I was ever in (I played Armado, with a fake mustache), so it has a special place in my heart. It checks all the great rom-com boxes— the contrived circumstances to keep our lovers apart, the will-they-won’t-they—but its ending is what really gets me. The play’s last lines without fail make me cry. I won’t tell you what they are. You’ll know ’em when you hear ’em.—Ben Lauer, Communication & Social Media Assistant
The cast of Macbeth at first rehearsal. 2018.
A Troublesome King (with a cult following)
I’m most excited for King John. I love to see our patrons get excited. Since we released our Season lineup, patrons and friends of the Folger light-up when they hear King John will be on stage here at the Folger!—Kate Abbott, Audience Services Manager
I’m most looking forward to King John. I love “rare” theater!—Grace Murtha, Box Office Associate
I’m most looking forward to King John (because when does anyone ever perform King John?) and Nell Gwynn because it’s new, and has both an amazing script and oranges.—Ian Patrick, Box Office Associate
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- Kate Eastwood Norris
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- Holly Twyford
A Golden Season of Poetry
I am really looking forward to celebrating the 50th season of poetry at the Folger. With readings on southern food, Afrofuturism, and eco-justice, I am excited to explore new work and to hear vibrant new voices on the Folger stage.—Teri Cross Davis, Poetry Coordinator
I’m looking forward to the 50th anniversary poetry season, particularly the readings with Atsuro Riley and Kay Ryan.—Grace Ann Roberts, Humanities Program Coordinator
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- Vinegar & Char: Verse from the Southern Foodways Alliance
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- Atsuro Riley
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- Kay Ryan
DC Debuts
Gemma Arterton in the West End production of Nell Gwynn, 2016. Photo: Tristran Kenton.
I was in England when Nell Gwynn was on in the West End, and always regretted not catching it, as it sounded like such a witty, fun show with a great central heroine. Having read the script, I’m even more excited it’s going to be at the Folger and that I’ll finally get to it see it!—Emma Poltrack, Public Programs Administrative Assistant
I’m most looking forward to Folger Consort’s program at Washington National Cathedral, The Food of Love: Romantic Music of the Renaissance. The Cathedral is such a special concert venue, and for these performances Consort is partnering with a young, up-and-coming vocal group out of Philadelphia called Les Canards Chantants. This concert is their local debut!—David Mozur, Folger Consort Manager
What’s Not to Love?
We’re working with some really great actors this year, and I can’t wait to have them back here with us.—David Polk, General Manager
It’s very hard to say what I anticipate most for the coming season—it’s like choosing your favorite child. I would say that for 2018/19 I am most looking forward to thought-provoking, delightful evenings of performance, a happy Folger team, and satisfied audiences.—Beth Emelson, Associate Artistic Producer/Associate Director of Public Programs
We can’t wait to share the year with you! Check back in the coming weeks as we share more on Folger Theatre’s Macbeth, which begins performances on Tuesday, September 4. For tickets and more information, visit us online or call the Folger Box Office at 202.544.7077.
Macbeth
Folger Theatre
Adapted by William Davenant
Music performed by Folger Consort
Directed by Robert Richmond; scenic design by Tony Cisek; costume design by Mariah Anzaldo Hale; lighting design by Andrew F. Griffin; sound design by Matt Otto.
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