First-look Photos: Macbeth at Leeds Playhouse starring Ash Hunter

First Look Photos – stunning new production shots show the beauty and dynamism of Macbeth at Leeds Playhouse.

The richly rendered, cinematic world of Macbeth is captured to stunning effect in new production shots released today by Leeds Playhouse of its major revival of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy.

The wickedly good cast is led by Hamilton and Bridgerton star Ash Hunter, bringing a deep well of emotion and animalistic intent to the ruthlessly ambitious Macbeth. He played Alexander Hamilton in the hit West End musical in 2018/19 and starred as Heathcliff in Emma Rice’s acclaimed production of Wuthering Heights at the National Theatre.

Jessica Baglow stars alongside him as Lady Macbeth in Director Amy Leach and Set & Costume Designer Hayley Grindle’s thrilling take on Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy. Jessica achieved widespread acclaim in the role when the production was first staged at the Playhouse in 2022, giving audiences a wonderfully complex would-be queen, mired in grief but with a steely inner core. Jessica has worked extensively in theatre, film and TV since childhood, appearing as a series regular in both ITV’s Where The Heart Is and the BBC’s Waterloo Road. Her extensive theatre credits include Pericles at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, for which she received an Ian Charleson Award Commendation.

Amy Leach, Deputy Artistic Director of Leeds Playhouse and Director of Macbeth, said: “I think it is one of the greatest plays ever written. It’s thrillingly fast-paced with a cracking story and incredible language that explores the deepest, darkest parts of what it is to be human. It investigates the nature of belief, love, ambition and desire, asking us to root for two humans who drive each other to do utterly terrible things.

“Our production is an exciting rollercoaster that brings Shakespeare’s words clearly to life, giving young people the chance to experience the play as it should be – as a living, breathing, electrifying experience.”

The adult cast includes: Adam Bassett as Macduff; Charlotte Arrowsmith as Lady Macduff/Witch; Benjamin Cawley as Ross; Aosaf Afzal as Duncan/Doctor/Murderer; Paul Brown as Lennox; Karina Jones as Witch/Gentlewoman; Shahbaaz Khan as Malcolm/Murderer; Daniel Poyser as Banquo; and Elkanah Wilder as Witch/Messenger.

Macbeth runs at the Quarry Theatre, Leeds Playhouse until 23 March 2024.