The “Voodoo Macbeth” is a common nickname for the Federal Theatre Project’s 1936 New York production of the play by William Shakespeare, “Macbeth.” Orson Welles adapted and directed the production, moving the setting from Scotland to a fictional Caribbean island, and recruited an entirely black cast.

Welles’ “Voodoo Macbeth” was notable for its use of music, dance, and other elements of Caribbean voodoo culture to create a unique and visually striking interpretation of the play. The production received generally positive reviews, with many critics praising the performances of the actors and the innovative staging. Some reviewers also praised the production’s use of voodoo elements to bring new life to the classic play. However, the production was not without controversy, with some people expressing concern about the portrayal of voodoo and Caribbean culture in the production.

Overall, Orson Welles’ “Voodoo Macbeth” was an ambitious and creative reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s play that received positive reviews for its innovative staging and strong performances.

During the depression, a need for gainful employment forced the government to create jobs. One such role was theater, and another was for artists to create posters like this one, by American painter and graphic artist Anthony Velonis. The Federal Theatre Project (1935-39) was a New Deal program to fund live artistic performances and entertainment programs during the Great Depression. The program was created as a relief measure to employ artists, writers, directors and theater workers, not primarily for cultural activity.

1936/USA