Author(s): Rob John

Literature

Act Now is a highly-acclaimed series of accessible new plays, specially written for young people, with the aim of: encouraging young people to take part in practical drama; introducing an awareness of dramatic production - from casting and direction to lighting and design; promoting the discussion of issues which are of special interest to young people and; meeting the requirements of GCSE Drama. All plays are suitable for performance and class reading with large groups. Living with Lady Macbeth uses the device of a play within a play to examine some of the issues of power and ambition invested in the character of Lady Macbeth. Lily is determined to audition for this part, as she is tired of always being behind the scenes, of being ordinary and reliable. Disregarding derision from those around her, Lily stuns everyone with a chilling performance of Act I Scene V, but finally chooses to do the costumes - not out of defeat, but because she has satisfied her ambition.