BTP's next production, Shakespeare's Macbeth, numbers among its cast and crew an oyster farmer, an accountant, two teachers, a doctor, two lawyers, a weaver, several nurses, a teacher, a journalist, three musicians and two students, to name just a few and they all have their stories. They have all gathered together to share their love of theatre, and in this particular production, their love of the Bard himself.

Ash Magoffin, who will be remembered for her role as Helena in last year's A Midsummer Night's Dream, and most recently, in Dags, says her most interesting job was as a lifeguard at a waterpark where she was also paid to test the slides. And, for the chefs amongst us, the last thing she did for the first time was to make dumplings from scratch. In Macbeth, Ash has the role of Malcolm, who becomes the Prince of Cumberland, and provides the overall resolution of the conflicts in the play.

Ziggy Reddy is a legal aid lawyer and she loves being in court. She said "I love being able to make a difference for vulnerable people". Among her other experiences: she has worked in a veterinary hospital where she met some wonderful animals. Ziggy, who plays First Witch in Macbeth said "although there are only two halves in a whole, I see First Witch as half cat, half psychopath and half prostitute as she shapeshifts with Graymalkin (her familiar) and toys with and taunts Macbeth. She may also have a little penchant for playing with blood".

Macbeth opens on Friday, July 26, with eight performances. Tickets at www.baytheatreplayers.org.au.

The next play exploration, All My Sons by Arthur Miller, is on this Wednesday, June 19, at 7pm at the Playhouse, 33 Gregory Street, Batemans Bay. It's based on the true story of an aeronautical company that conspired with army inspection officers to approve defective aircraft engines destined for military use. Assembly workers informed on the company and later testified under oath before Congress. Come along and read, listen or just enjoy a cuppa.