Review: MACBETH, Leeds Playhouse
Kirsten McTernan
Whether you are a fan of Shakespeare or a total newbie, Leeds Playhouse’s production of Macbeth will captivate every member of the audience. Even if you are not familiar with Shakespeare’s tale of murder, paranoia and witchcraft, you will be drawn into the storytelling of this immersive showing.
This production is perfectly crafted to give you an unforgettable experience; both visually and audibly. As is the norm for Leeds Playhouse projects, this show has accessibility at the heart of what they do; not only for the benefit of their diverse cast of deaf, blind and non-disabled actors, but also for every member of the audience. Sign language and audio description are actually built-in to the whole show; integrated so well that some audience members may not even notice. The director, Amy Leach, and audio description consultant Benjamin Wilson worked hard to ensure the production is as exciting to listen to as it is to watch. The inclusion of epic music and immersive sound-effects, as well as aural storytelling elements, means that the story is perfectly conveyed audibly. This not only ensures it is accessible for blind and visually impaired audience members, but also complements the visual elements, enhancing the overall show. Sign language often accompanies the actor’s words, and deaf actor Adam Bassett, who plays Macduff performs in sign language, with translation from Macduff’s friends; beautifully portraying the emotions even for those audience members who don’t know the language.
The set design and creative staging stand out in this production. The director was said to be inspired by the Yorkshire Moors, Pennines and sites of the Pendle Witch Trials, and these elements certainly evoke the eerie feeling that the play requires. The area is dark with black earth covering the floor, which is brought to life further by cast members interacting with and using the dirt at certain moments of the show. The only set piece is a large central drawbridge which is used creatively throughout to represent different settings. The set also includes a series of lights that are able to create many different dramatic looks throughout and further stir-up the supernatural feel. The costumes are also wonderfully designed to complement the dark and dirty look of the setting, they help to bring the characters to life and situate them in the world they live within.
Every member of the cast brought the characters and story to life beautifully, led by Ash Hunter and Jessica Baglow as Lord and Lady Macbeth who portrayed their characters’ dramatic journey wonderfully. Karina Jones, Elkanah Wider and swing Katrina Allen played the three witches who act as brilliant storytellers throughout. The rest of the cast make up Macbeth’s friends, enemies and allies, who provide moments of comedy as well as drama.
It is also wonderful to hear Shakepeare performed in regional accents, with many local Northern voices among the cast. As the director herself suggests in the programme, it is important for young people to see and hear themselves in productions like these, so that they are aware that Shakespeare is for them. Sometimes Shakespeare has a reputation for being complicated and some may think that it will be too difficult for them to understand. However, productions like these are ensuring that these timeless tales can be enjoyed by everyone.
**** Five Stars
Reviewed by Romy Morgan
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