Shakespeare Repertory means its name. Right now it`s producing two very different works-”Pericles” and ”Macbeth”-in rotating performances by the same ensemble on the same stage. The changeover required as the Repertory switches from Pericles` adventure drama to the Scottish tragedy is as physical as it is dramatic. Just as actor Peter Aylward, shown here as his two characters, must move from the all-suffering title role in ”Pericles” (left) to valiant Macduff, the sets must switch-considerably.
In charge of those changes is technical director Daniel Yuen, a scenic artist who has worked at the Wagon Wheel Playhouse and at Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace. Yuen describes the five to seven hours of hard work required to switch a set. ”It takes a crew of 11 stagehands to change the entire look of the stage. That means bringing in a whole new floor; Michael Merritt`s design allows the `Pericles` plywood floor to fit over the `Macbeth` floor. We also exchange the wall units on both sides of the stage-a total of 16 pieces, each of which weighs about 100 pounds. On the upstage for `Pericles` we build a cantilevered platform to give a floating illusion for the sea changes. We also get out a ladder and set up the sail for Pericles` boat.
”When we go back to `Macbeth` we have to take out the platform and floor and replace them with a ramp; we also set up a rain effect which uses about five gallons a night, as well as Lady Macbeth`s hanging; the latter requires testing the rigging and harness for safety`s sake. Plus our master electrician comes in and refocuses the lights and changes the color gels for some 80 instruments.”
It`s a huge undertaking, all the more impressive when you learn that over the run there will be 14 of these changeovers! But, as Yuen says, ”I wouldn`t be doing this if I didn`t enjoy it.”
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”Pericles” and ”Macbeth” run through March 22 at the Ruth Page Theatre, 1016 N. Dearborn Pkwy.; 312-281-1878.
