Shakespeare North Playhouse: Macbeth

Ange Seddon visited Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescott for the English Touring Theatre’s production of Macbeth

We were invited to watch the English Touring Theatre’s production of Macbeth. This is one of Shakespeare’s shorter tragedies, but it is packed full to bursting with action, murderous betrayal, and madness.

We are taken through a slightly different start to the play with the awful witch trials of the time and their appalling treatment of women accused of witchcraft. We then meet the Macbeths, a couple clearly devoted to one another, the noble, yet softly spoken warrior played admirably by Mike Noble, and the beguiling, yet ambitious Lady Macbeth, using all her persuasive power to launch her husband on his murderous path in order to gain the prophesied crown.

‘Is this a dagger I see before me?’ With the king slain Macbeth takes the crown as king of Scotland, but his guilt and paranoia lead him to further murders and tyrannical behaviour. ‘Will all great Neptune’s ocean wash this blood clean from my hand?’

Technology was used to good effect in the contemporary setting and the backdrop of the new ‘Frons Scenae’ (that’s a decorated background that frames the stage to you and me) It brought the ghosts of King Duncan and Banquo into Macbeth’s view, causing him to descend into mad ramblings. It was a creepily well done scene. The sound effects on occasion were palpable, making you catch your breath.

There were occasional bursts of bagpipes which were ear-jarringly loud, but I guess there’s no such thing as gentle bagpipe music! The inclusion of a karaoke singing Malcom seemed a little left field, while Macduff was trying to persuade him to raise an English army against King Macbeth. Guy Rhys as Macduff was excellent, and another standout performance for me was Leo Wan as Ross, bringing both seriousness and humour very deftly.

Lady Macbeth’s guilt eats away at her causing her to sleepwalk, trying to rid herself of the blood of those they were responsible for taking, 'Out damn'd spot!’ But she goes deeper into despair and eventually takes her own life.

The final scene shows the now thuggish Macbeth meeting his end at the hands of Macduff, to fulfil another prophecy from the witches. In doing so he restores order and avenges the murders of his family. It was a very compelling scene.

 I really enjoyed myself at what was a fast-moving and thought-provoking piece of theatre delivered by an incredibly talented cast. There is still chance to catch the production, so grab a ticket, you won’t regret it!

shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk

IMAGES: The Other Richard

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Shakespeare North Playhouse Prospero Place, Prescot, L34 3AB

t: 0151 433 7156

e: hello@shakespearenorthplayhouse.co.uk

 

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