The Better Part — Deborah Gregory

Based around a dire production of 'Macbeth', The Better Part is a black comedy about ambition, desire, and superstition. Against her better judgement, Nairne MacKinney accepts the role of the Third Witch in 'Macbeth'. At her age, with her talent, Nairne should have been cast as the lead. Her companions confirm this. The charismatic actor playing Macbeth offers himself as a lover, if only she would be his stage wife. The spirit of the witch she is playing appears to insist on this. But stepping into the shoes of Shakespeare's most infamous female involves harming the beautiful, incompetent actress who has been miscast in the role. Accidents happen to those around her, but Nairne feels the curse of The Scottish Play has singled her out, leaving its footprints in the sand, riding along in her car. Whispering temptations. Will Nairne emulate Lady Macbeth by allowing ambition to ensnare her? The rewards seem almost worth the risk: an improved career, a breathtaking love affair. Can she resist? Or will she forfeit her integrity, perhaps even kill, in order to play the better part?