The Scottish Play Gets a 1980s High School Remix

We are thrilled to announce the publication of Mick and Beth Rule the School, a modern twist on Shakespeare’s Macbeth by Nancy Kissam, now available in the Gitelman & Good catalog! Set in a 1980s high school, this darkly comedic adaptation reimagines the famous tale of ambition, betrayal, and power, with teenage rebels Mick and Beth at the center of the drama.

About the Play

Mick and Beth Rule the School brings Shakespeare’s themes to life in a high school setting where rivalries, social climbing, and ambition drive the story. When Mick, a nerdy outsider, and his punk-rock twin sister Beth, decide they’re tired of being underdogs, they take matters into their own hands. With the help of a coven of teenage goths, they scheme their way to the top of the student body, but their ascent is not without consequences.

Blending humor, pop culture references, and gothic elements, this fresh take on Macbeth is perfect for high school theater programs looking for a play that is both familiar and original, offering students an exciting way to engage with classic material in a modern context.

Cast & Production

With a large ensemble cast of quirky, memorable characters and flexible staging, Mick and Beth Rule the School is ideal for high school productions. Whether your theater program wants to explore the darker themes of ambition and guilt or embrace the over-the-top energy of 80s teen culture, this play provides a unique opportunity for students to connect with both Shakespearean and modern storytelling.