Macbeth, Shakespeare’s epic tale of tyrannical destruction lurched like a juggernaut through the Ellis Theatre last week.
Paul Cox’s brutalist, industrial set design immediately defined the unsettling contemporary context of David Kenworthy’s stark, prophetic interpretation: a sealed, underground bunker offering no protection from the devastating consequences of despotic human ambition.
The post-apocalyptic concept may indeed have been futuristic, but the costume design by Ellen Gifford and Claire Allott of modern, military and hospital uniforms offset against the vulnerability of pyjamas felt uncomfortably familiar to an audience saturated with comparable medical images from current global conflicts.
Casper Hawkins’ subtle and highly atmospheric lighting design and relentlessly rumbling soundscape underscored the inexorable build of tension created by this most accomplished company of actors that spanned all year groups of the College.
The telling of the story was expertly led by an indomitable performance from Arthur K in the title role, chillingly supported by the impressive persuasive tactics of Radha C playing Lady Macbeth. The natural poise displayed by Willa M as their first victim was not inherited by either of her children, both portrayed as typically nonchalant teens by Coco H and Caspar M who then showed a promising level of character refinement skill, when forced by the turn of events, to abandon his smartphone scrolling and step into his new role as Scotland’s rightful heir.
The unfolding tragedy was, of course, foretold by Shakepeare’s infamous trio of witches, here more resemblant of ‘bitches’, which enabled Tess H, Violet D and Chloe R to find a youthful and zestful delight in the surrounding ruin. Bear C-J supplied the only other moment of light relief as the hapless Porter, giving a wonderfully incoherent account of how he slept through the whole thing and missed it!
The pervading tragedy, however, maintained its constant presence with stunning performances from Jim Z-M (Macduff), Felix T (Ross) and Grace F (Lennox) who valiantly fight to the bitter end, and also from Cristiano M L as the ill-fated Banquo. The supporting roles were valiantly played by Ollie M, Oscar B, Bea L, Rhys B, Harrison M and Darcy M, all matching, in every sense, the unwavering level of focus and commitment displayed by the principal actors.
Shakespeare’s death in 1616 prompted fellow-playwright, Ben Jonson, to acknowledge him as ‘not of an age, but for all time’. The success of this production’s visceral update in the current political climate provided a shattering affirmation of that.
Congratulations and thanks to all involved.
Jane Darby
Drama Department
