Bard In The Valley

Directors Note

Mandy Knopp

Director’s Note:

This show has been an incredible journey that began with a single idea: what if the witches were the true puppet masters of this world? From that spark, everything grew. In this version, the witches aren’t just mysterious figures whispering prophecies, these characters are the driving force behind the story, real representations of the history of witches within our world, constantly shifting (even right before your eyes), manipulating, and shaping the events that unfold. They blur the line between fate and free will, raising the question: who’s really in control?

At its core, Macbethexplores ambition, power, and the dangerous lengths people go to when they crave success. In today’s world, that pursuit often comes at a cost: our values, our sanity, even our humanity. Watching Macbeth and Lady Macbeth unravel under the weight of guilt and paranoia reminds us just how fragile the human mind and spirit can be when consumed by ambition and the pursuit of power.

This show is meant to leave you in awe and wonder. From the lights and sound to the movement and set design, every detail has been crafted to pull you into the dark, unpredictable, chaotic world of Macbeth. It’s a production that thrives on collaboration and a lot of my own ambition and trust; it truly took a village to bring this story to life. Every cast and crew member has poured their heart and soul into creating a performance that’s both visually stunning and emotionally raw.

My hope is that as you watch, you’ll feel the tension, the magic, and the madness. You’ll see how ambition twists, how guilt festers, and how the witches’ invisible hands guide it all, right up to the very end and maybe even after.

Thank you for joining us on this journey into the shadows.

Scene Summary

Act.1 Scene 1 Three witches plan to meet Macbeth after the battle, introducing prophecy and fate.

Act.1 Scene 2 Duncan hears of Macbeth’s bravery and rewards him with the title Thane of Cawdor.

Act.1 Scene 3 The witches hail Macbeth as Thane of Cawdor and future king; Banquo’s descendants are prophesied to rule. Macbeth’s ambition awakens.

Act.1 Scene 4 Duncan names Malcolm heir to the throne. Macbeth’s desire for power deepens.

Act.1 Scene 5 Lady Macbeth reads Macbeth’s letter and resolves to push him toward killing Duncan.

Act.1 Scene 6 Duncan arrives. Lady Macbeth greets him warmly, hiding her deadly intent.

Act.1 Scene 7 Macbeth doubts the murder plan. Lady Macbeth persuades him to kill the king.

Act.2 Scene 1 Macbeth hallucinates a dagger leading him to Duncan’s chamber.

Act.2 Scene 2 Macbeth kills Duncan and Lady Macbeth frames the guards.

Act.2 Scene 3 Duncan’s murder is discovered. Macbeth kills the guards. Malcolm flees.

Act.2 Scene 4 Ross and Macduff talk about the strange occurrences with an ‘old man’ and that Macbeth has been crowned king.

Act.3 Scene 1 Macbeth fears Banquo’s heirs and hires murderers to kill him and Fleance.

Act.3 Scene 2 Macbeth hints to Lady Macbeth that a violent act will soon happen.

Act.3 Scene 3 Banquo is murdered, but Fleance escapes.

Act.3 Scene 4 Banquo’s ghost appears at Macbeth’s banquet, terrifying him.

INTERMISSION

Act.3 Scene 5 Hecate scolds the witches and plots to deceive Macbeth further.

Act.3 Scene 6 Lennox discusses Macbeth’s tyranny and the growing opposition against him with a ‘friend’.

Act.4 Scene 1 The witches show Macbeth three apparitions: beware Macduff, none born of woman shall harm him, and he is safe until Birnam Wood moves. He decides to kill Macduff’s family.

Act.4 Scene 2 Lady Macduff and her son are murdered by Macbeth’s order.

Act.4 Scene 3 Malcolm and Macduff discuss what to do about Macbeth and the state of their country. Macduff learns his family has been killed and vows revenge.

Act.5 Scene 1 Lady Macbeth sleepwalks, obsessed with washing imaginary blood from her hands.

Act.5 Scene 2 Malcolm and Macduff unite with English forces to overthrow Macbeth.

Act.5 Scene 3 Macbeth prepares for battle, clinging to the witches’ prophecies.

Act.5 Scene 4 Malcolm’s army cuts branches from Birnam Wood, fulfilling part of the prophecy.

Act.5 Scene 5 Lady Macbeth dies. Macbeth learns Birnam Wood appears to be moving.

Act.5 Scene 6-8 Macbeth fights bravely but is killed by Macduff, who reveals he was not “born of woman.” Malcolm becomes king.

Cast and Crew

Macbeth - Darcy Knopp

This show is a rarity. You could audition a lifetime and never have the stars align so generously as they have for Darcy J Knopp with this production. It's classic character, a renowned play, a brilliant and mesmerizing cast, an exciting and vivid design, and, of course, a daring plunge into the inner darkness of the soul to a place we all know exists but are too terrified to speak of. Darcy, on behalf of the cast and crew, would like to welcome you all to this fantastic nightmare. He hopes that you will enjoy this horrific tale of ambition, the supernatural, and a corrupted prophecy that spurs the disastrous unwinding of a man's humanity. Darcy is grateful to take a break from his comfortable director's chair (last year's: Rotten in the State of Denmark) and return to the stage for this project. He swears his next task is to return to the laptop to pen (key?) his next play coming to a theatre near you. He also wishes to salute his intrepid "Wiferoo" who allows him to play on stage and ignore adulting on a regular basis. Buckle up!

Lady Macbeth / Macbeth's son - Eylse Maloway (she/they)

Elyse of House Maloway, First of Her Name, Queen of the Early Bedtime and the Tummy Ache, Khaleesi of the West End, Eater of Snackies, and Mother of Lunas, is elated to be joining this formidable team for her 6th production with BIV. Past company credits include ‘A Comedy of Errors’, ‘Julius Caesar’, and last Winter’s ‘Rotten in the State of Denmark’ in which Elyse portrayed Hanna, a mercurial and supernaturally tortured princess. This year, they play Lady Macbeth, a mercurial and supernaturally tortured queen (Allegations of type-casting pending). When not on stage, Elyse skulks around the film/TV and voiceover scene, works on developing writing and directing projects (her original one-act play ‘Royally’ featured in the 2025 Playstorm Festival), and snuggles the stuffing out of her cat, Luna. She thanks you for supporting local theatre and hopes you enjoy the ride!

First Witch - Avery Taylor (she/her)

This is Avery's first show with BIV. She is excited to work with this seasoned crew.

Second Witch - Vanessa Lazare (she/they)

Vanessa is a performer, educator, and tour guide passionate about all things theatre! She is thrilled to be returning to the BIV stage with an absolute all-star cast and crew. Some of their favourite shows on Langley stages include Canadian Content (LLT), Rotten in the State of Denmark (BIV), and Amadeus (TIC). When not performing, Vanessa can be found shaping young minds into stardom, yelling from a booth or backstage in her stage management pursuits, or telling ghost stories on the streets of Gastown. Vanessa would like to thank the cast and creative team for being the best group of people to work with, and a special thank you to Mandy and Lauren for whipping this witch into shape! Enjoy the show!

Third Witch - Madison McArthur (she/they)

Madison has been a driving force behind Bard in the Valley since joining the company in 2014 as an actor and board member, and she has served as President since 2019. Under her leadership, Bard in the Valley has grown in scope, professionalism, and community impact—reaching new audiences and expanding opportunities for local artists. Madison’s passion for theatre and commitment to collaboration continue to shape the company’s creative vision. This season, she steps back onto the stage as Witch 3 in The Play That Shall Not Be Named, reminding us all that true leaders lead both on and off the stage.

MacDuff/Sergeant - J.D. Dueckman (he/him)

J.D. returns to BIV to play one of the two big Macs of the story (spoiler alert: the one who survives), and has had an absolute blast! What actor could resist digging into this classic with their friends and wantonly dropping the M-word in a theatre without repercussions? A few of his recent theatrical credits include Johnny in Home, I’m Darling (Theatre in the Country), Mortimer Brewster in Arsenic & Old Lace (Metro Theatre), David O. Selznick, Moonlight & Magnolias (Metro Theatre), and Posthumous Leonatus in Cymbeline (Bard in the Valley).

Malcolm/Fleance - David Hollinshead

David feels extremely blessed to be a part of Bard In The Valley for a second time. Working with this talented and hilarious (not entirely based on what you’ll see on stage tonight) cast has been such a pleasure. When not on the ice, slinging drinks, or talking football on the internet, you may have recently seen David in Footloose (Gallery 7), Rotten In The State Of Denmark (BIV), and Catering Queen (Metro Theatre). Please enjoy the show-that-must-not-be-named!

Ross/Siward - Kaden Burgart

Our attendees come from diverse backgrounds and industries, making BIV a melting pot of ideas and perspectives. We believe that our attendees are the heart and soul of the event and we strive to make their experience unforgettable.

Lennox/Young Siward - Melissa House (she/her)

Melissa is a Project Coordinator from Maple Ridge, and is so happy to be back Shakespeare-ing with the BIV crew. Past theatre credits include Gleb in Anastasia (Theatre in the Country) and Quince in A Midsummer Night's Dream (BIV). A big big thank you to my husband and mom and everyone else who helped fill in the gaps and keep an eye on Little Miss C so this new mama could get back on the stage.

Porter, Lady Macduff, Gentlewoman - Dayna Coulter (she/her)

Dayna (self-proclaimed BIV fan-girl) has been involved in the audience, on the board, front of house managing, volunteer coordinating, traffic directing, elevator opening, directing and is thrilled to be back on stage acting again. She is particularly excited to be reunited with so many amazingly talented (and hilarious, kind, wonderful) BIV alumni living the summer camp dream, this time in the winter. This is also a special project because she has been able to dive into Shakespeare with her daughter. She is so thankful to Dylan for holding down the home front in her absence and being her biggest cheerleader. I pray you, remember the porter!

Duncan, doctor - Thomas Gage (he/him)

Banquo/Hecate - Pauline Dynowski (she/her)

Max Cowan - Stage Manager

Since 2021, Max Cowan has been Bard in the Valley’s go-to stage manager, bringing professionalism, organization, and calm under pressure to every production. Max’s steady leadership keeps our shows running smoothly from the first rehearsal to the final curtain, ensuring that both cast and crew can do their best work. Their dedication, attention to detail, and genuine care for the team make them an invaluable part of the Bard in the Valley family. We’re proud to have Max on our team and look forward to growing together as BIV continues to expand.

Brad Hendy - Producer

Happy to be on the leadership team of this show and organization. Each season we work hard to bring a unique venue and terrific show to our community. Big shout out to the Langley Seniors Resource Society for hosting us. Macbeth has brought out some top talent in both acting and crew. This show aims to be one of the best we have ever produced and we are pulling out all the stops for it.

Bryan Cutler - Production Manager / Set

Since joining Bard in the Valley in 2023, Bryan Cutler has been an essential part of bringing our productions to life. As Production Manager and Set Builder, Bryan combines creativity, craftsmanship, and technical expertise to turn design concepts into fully realized worlds on stage. His problem-solving skills and steady leadership help ensure each show runs smoothly from build to curtain call. Whether constructing intricate sets or coordinating the behind-the-scenes logistics, Bryan’s dedication and ingenuity are key to the magic our audiences see each season.

Tarrah Tanaka - Lighting Designer

"This is Tarrah's 5th show with Bard In the Valley, her last one being Stage Managing for 'The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged)'. She can often be found at Langley Little Theatre, most recently directing the February 2026 production of Misery by William Goldman, based on the novel by Stephen King. She hopes you enjoy Mac, it's a great show!"

Kimberley Perkins - Costume Designer

Kimberley Perkins is a Theatre student at UFV and is happy to return to BIV this season. Kimberley enjoys sewing and has made many handmade costumes including outfits for BIV’s Merry Wives of Windsor, Gallery 7’s Miracle on 34th street, UFV’s Macbeth and Paper Bag Princess, as well as Anastasia and The Matchmaker at Theatre in the Country. She also loves to write plays and involve all of her family in them. Most recently there was A Christmas Vlog, a play performed at Calvary Baptist Church, and Fanny Sees the Son, performed at Langley Little Theatre in 2024. She loves to research historical costuming and integrates this knowledge into her pieces. You can find Kimberley teaching preschool, reenacting history as an interpreter at the Fort Langley CN station, practicing archery and Scottish country dancing. Kimberley thanks her wonderful husband and three amazing daughters for supporting her through the mountains of fabric around the house.

Steven Carty - Hair and Makeup designer

Steven Carty is a proud member of IATSE 891, which represents film and television workers, and has been doing makeup on and offscreen for 25 years. In recent years his work has graced magazines, ad campaigns, billboards in New York City, has had recognitions and awards in the Cannes Film festival, The Leos, and considerations at the Emmys. During these years, however, the stage and performing have always been at the core of his passion as a way to express his own art. Steven is passionate about storytelling through the art of makeup as it creates memorable characters, allows the audience to lose themselves in the tales being told, and creates memories to share with your friends and family. Enjoy the show.

Gabe Kirkley - Sound Design

Sarah Nutbrown Bourdeau - Projection Designer

Shawn McGrory - Props Master

Shawn has been with Bard in the Valley since the beginning. He has worked in all capacities for BIV. Board Director, Producer, Actor and Props - I'm sure he's done more too. Shawn continues to guide BIV on decision making and props. As we grow as an organization Shawn has given us a sounding board for advice.

Dylan Coulter - Fight Choreographer

Dylan works with BIV on many capacities. Foremost, Dylan is the Vice-President of Bard in the Valley. He has directed a number of productions with the latest bing The Merry Wives of Windsor and Winter's Tale. Dylan has been on stage for BIV more times than we can remember. Backstage has Dylan choreographs our fight scenes and helps with our transition team.

Omar Poersch - Tech

Omar is a young theatre technician, with a love of everything in the arts. Out of high school between playing dnd and making art he has had the chance to work on a few shows already and can't wait to do more. He has been the technician for Rotten in The State of Denmark (BIV), Merry Wives of Windsor (BIV), Making a Killing (Vagabond Players), The Maltese Reindeer (Vagabond Players), and now the show that shall not be named! And can’t wait to blind every actor on stage!

Emma Johnston - Concession supervisor

Emma Johnston keeps the Bard in the Valley audience refreshed and smiling as our dedicated concession manager. With her friendly energy and exceptional organizational skills, Emma ensures every show night runs smoothly—from stocking treats to serving guests with a welcoming smile. Her commitment to creating a positive experience for patrons adds a special touch to every performance. Bard in the Valley is grateful for Emma’s hard work and enthusiasm, both behind the counter and behind the scenes.

Amy Houweling - Social Media

Amy Houweling is a local artist and talented graphic designer . She graduated with distinction from BCIT's Graphic Design program. Amy joined BIV as the social media coordinator. She has a passion for nature, arts, and literature, and her favourite Shakespeare play is Hamlet. If you would like to contact her about her services, feel free to email hello@amyhouweling.art

Lauren Clift - Choreography

Lauren is thrilled to be choreographing her first show with Bard in the Valley. Usually found on the stage, Lauren’s been a part of Fraser Valley theatre, acting, singing and dancing for 10+ years, but she’s excited to be taking part behind the scenes this time with some witchy choreography. Her recent acting credits include Andrea, Royally (Little Langley Theatre), Ariel, Footloose (Gallery 7), and Margot, Legally Blonde (FVS). If you’d like to see more of her choreography, come see Gallery 7’s Glory (Jan. 23rd to Feb. 8th). She hopes you enjoy the chaos of the weird sisters and the wonderful performers in this show.

Phay Moores - Intimacy Coach

Phay Moore is Bard in the Valley’s resident intimacy coach, supporting our artists in creating safe, respectful, and authentic performances. With a deep understanding of boundaries, consent, and storytelling, Phay helps performers navigate scenes of closeness and vulnerability with care and confidence. Their thoughtful approach fosters trust within the cast and ensures that emotional and physical storytelling is handled with professionalism and sensitivity. Bard in the Valley is grateful for Phay’s expertise in making our rehearsal spaces safe, creative, and empowering for all.

Kylie Knowlson - Photographer

Kylie Knowlson is Bard in the Valley’s resident photographer, capturing the energy, artistry, and spirit of each production through her stunning images. With a sharp eye for storytelling and a love of live performance, Kylie brings a unique perspective to every shoot—whether she’s documenting behind-the-scenes moments or bringing the magic of Shakespeare to life on stage. Her work not only preserves Bard in the Valley’s productions for years to come but also helps share the joy of theatre with our wider community.