Shakesoc’s winter show of Macbeth proved to be a bloody treat, in all senses of the term.
The show brought a whimsical and eerie take on the Shakespearean tragedy, setting the play in the 19th century with influences of Dracula and Great Expectations. The costumes in particular were an eye-catching aspect, with an array of intricate dresses, corsets, and shirts reminiscent of the gothic period.
The Victorian-inspired setting anticipated the aspects of horror in Macbeth that the production dwelled on. The performance offered an interesting interpretation of the well-known play, choosing to perform the deaths and murders that take place off-stage in front of the audience.
This adaptation brought the tragedy of the play to the forefront, as the audience were witness to the gruesome acts of the protagonist.
The challenges of Shakespeare were also done full justice by the play’s talented cast. The haunting and potent Lady Macbeth (Freya Leadbetter) paired with a powerful performance of the titular tragic hero (Nick Clark) handled the tricky roles with expertise, supported by an equally compelling cast of supporting characters.
The lead roles were very impressive, but that is not to diminish how memorable smaller parts of the cast were.
A highlight was the eccentric presence of the three witches (Seonaid Bennett, Erin Martin, Lily Bacon Darwin), dressed in earthy tones and floaty fabrics, who ventured into the audience in the opening to perch on ledges and await their time to emerge onstage.
A strength across the cast was certainly the regular moments of soliloquy, where the talent of the group shone.
The production further displayed a well thought-out lighting design too, notably the lit up silhouettes to create visions of a dagger, or visions and prophecies that the witches pose to Macbeth. The creativity of the design team in general was to be applauded, particularly the Victorian haunted-house set dressing which pervaded the aesthetic of the show.
Macbeth proved another impressive feat from Shakesoc, and we’re very much looking forward to seeing what they do next…