What is BYU Young Company?

by Jessa Cunningham, dramaturg

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One of the coolest things about this production of Macbeth is that after the show closes at BYU, it will play other places for a while. That's right, the cast of this show will go on tour, and visit many different elementary schools in the area over the course of a couple months! That way, more children are reached and get to see these famous Shakespeare characters come to life! That's all thanks to the BYU Young Company.
What is Young Company? It's a training ground for both actors and training artists that want to work in theatre for young audiences. They facilitate interaction with children of all ages, and get them involved and excited about theatre with the shows they perform. Each year, the Young Company performs for more than 16,000 young people! They oftentimes do workshops and activities in the schools they visit, which help to nurture a strong relationship with the audiences they meet.
This year, they have decided to bring Shakespeare's Macbeth to life, and it couldn't be cooler. The actors, designers, and director are all working incredibly hard so this show touches all who see it. They are making something truly special for the children-- you won't want to miss it! It will be a treat for everyone involved.
During the run of the show, you'll come to get to know the members of the cast and others involved with the show, so keep in touch!

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by Jessa Cunningham, dramaturg After the show wrapped up and people went their separate ways, Garret Rushforth, who played Wilbur, and I chatted and I asked him some questions about his experience with the play. What better way to gain insight about the show than from the actor who was in the thick of things from the very beginning? Here is what Garret had to say about this unique opportunity: Me: How was this experience of playing Wilbur? What was your Favorite aspect of it all? Garret: I loved playing Wilbur. My favorite aspect was discovering the character more and more each performance. I never really felt that I had learned all that the character had to offer. Me: What were some challenges that you faced while preparing for the show? Garret: A few of the challenges that I faced had to do primarily with transportation. My car tried to die a couple of times during the run. As far as developing the show goes, I found that the difficulties were mostly in finding the lines. Not simply reciting them, but discovering what was beneath them, motivating them and making them come to life. Me: What lessons have you learned from playing this part, or just from the play in general? Garret: I've learned that there is an amazing opportunity to find out about yourself from the character discovery process. I also learned how much a family the cast can become if given the opportunity. Me: What is your favorite part of this story? Garret: I love when Wilbur and Charlotte talk about Charlotte's death and Wilbur is so devastated. It showed how deep Wilbur's reliance on Charlotte was as well as his desire to help her too. Me: As you leave this production, what will stay with you? Garret: The friendships I've made and the things that I've learned about myself because of the show. Me: What aspects of your character did you love/latch onto from the beginning? Garret: I latched onto the loneliness aspect of Wilbur's life. For all his life, he'd not been given much of a chance, Fern and Charlotte being the exceptions. He was written off by nearly everyone until Charlotte pointed out how special he is. Me: Any final thoughts you would like to share with those who came to the show? Garret: Charlotte's a web was a show that offered a unique view of friendship and family. It doesn't matter what someone looks like or where they're from, friendship and family can transcend all differences.

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What is BYU Young Company?

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