A GLASGOW college has congratulated one of its former students after he landed a top stage role this summer.

Reuben Joseph, who studied acting at Glasgow Clyde College, will play Macbeth in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s new production in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Glasgow Times: Reuben JosephReuben Joseph (Image: Royal Shakespeare Company)

Robert Anderson, assistant principal of business, creative and digital industries, said: “We’re very proud to see Reuben take to the stage as Macbeth later this year with the Royal Shakespeare Company – it’s an iconic role and he absolutely deserves it.

Glasgow Times: Reuben in a Clyde College production of Arsenic and Old Lace in 2018Reuben in a Clyde College production of Arsenic and Old Lace in 2018 (Image: Miskada)

“Ever since he graduated from Glasgow Clyde College in 2018, we’ve watched him take centre stage with some amazing roles, and to learn he’ll be performing as Macbeth is incredible. We’re so excited to see him perform and wish him all the best of luck.”

Reuben, who is currently playing the title role in the multi-awardwinning West End production of Lin Manuel-Miranda’s Hamilton, will appear alongside The Fall star Valene Kane as Lady Macbeth in Wils Wilson’s upcoming version of Shakespeare’s gripping and brutal tragedy. (Valene, who is Irish, is the only non-Scot in the production.)

Glasgow Times: Valene Kane, who plays Lady MacbethValene Kane, who plays Lady Macbeth (Image: Royal Shakespeare Company)

Reuben has also appeared in BBC submarine drama Vigil and Irvine Welsh’s Crime.

He said: “I don't think there's a single Scottish actor who hasn't dreamt of getting their hands on the part of Macbeth.

“For it to be my RSC debut, following in the footsteps of some of my acting heroes, ‘stands not within the prospect of belief’.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Wils for entrusting me with this role and can’t wait for you all to see the world she is creating for the show. It promises to be Scotland as Stratford-upon-Avon has never seen it before. Hopefully, we’ll see you there on the blasted heath.”

Director Wils Wilson said: “Reuben is an incredibly exciting Scottish actor. His rise has been pretty meteoric and it feels completely right that Macbeth is what comes next for him. He’s got it all - he’s a deep soul, and also a quick wit with that sense of play which all great actors have.”

Macbeth opens in Stratford on August 19.