Gorham High School (GHS)’s One Act cast performed “Macbeth” at the Regional Competition on March 7 in Windham. The day ended with a win for Gorham, placing first for the third year in a row.

Their production shaved down the original three-plus hour production into a mere 40 minutes, all performed under close watch from a panel of judges. The cast was slated to compete at the State competition at Falmouth High School March 20 and 21. However, both Class A and Class B competitions have been cancelled due to COVID-19.

Emily Paruk, who stars as Lady Macbeth, expressed how proud she is of the cast. “Pulling off a Shakespeare show in 40 minutes and doing it well is no easy feat. The first time you get the script it’s like reading another language. But we spent a lot of time working with the lines and working with the meaning and characterizing each person and diving into their character.”

“I have this overwhelming amount of joy and pride in our cast in what we’ve put in,” said Paruk.

When the news of the cancellation came through, it was evident all people included were disappointed. “It is something we have worked so hard for and it is really disappointing,” she said.

Although the journey for GHS’ One Act cast and crew ended earlier than expected, their effort and first-place finish at the regional festival is something to be proud of.