Macbeth

USER (03Mar06): I watched Macbeth at the Theatro Technis last week and was reminded by a captivating cast quite how engaging Shakespeare can be. It might have been 5 years since I last saw this play but never have I experienced the plot progressing with such natural rhythm. Scene, followed by scene was executed so smoothly that I was almost surprised when it ended, despite my familiarity with the script! Tarek’s interpretation of Macbeth is unique. Using Nathalie Pownhall’s eerie presence as the Witch, situated amongst the audience and in character for the duration of the play, held any wandering eye and provided an alternative to the main action, while keeping you involved in the plot. Similarly, returning from the interval to find that you are in the thick of the action provokes a different perspective and renewed interest. The casting of Stephen Elliot MacDonald and his bright, glazed eyes gave a heartfelt display of the limitations of Macbeth’s ambition when confronted by his emotional apprehension. Cecilia Colby’s portrayal of megalomaniac Lady Macbeth on the other hand was perfectly calculated and driven. The void of female emotion was effortlessly remedied by Esin Harvey as Lady Macduff, who stirred warmth and maternal empathy, with the aid of her adorable son, on this occasion played by Tom Hallgarten. The honourable air of Guy Moore as Macduff and genuine warmth of Graham Price as Banquo are additional examples of the cast’s ability to represent and emphasise the diversity of themes in Macbeth, which in this production the characters embody. Definitely one not to be missed! 5