Macbeth @ Genesian Theatre

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (reviewed Friday 14 March 2025).

Every so often you see a version of Macbeth that makes you appreciate just how versatile and time-travelling Shakespeare is. From obvious comparisons to the ruthless ambition of world leaders (whose names we shall never speak of), to funky music by The Rolling Stones and Nick Cave, this version of Macbeth at Genesian Theatre gives much ado to appreciate and unpack.

Admittedly, Shakespeare’s language is a barrier for some with its long-routed and archaic exposition. (Must Shakespeare explain every damn thought out-loud? 🫣) Director John Grinston shrewdly puts it at the centrepiece with a perfect enunciating cast; every word lands like a dagger all the way in the back row.

It’s wonderful to see actors believing in their make-believe world especially when given fantastic material to work with. Costumes are like a second skin for actors, giving them room to play. Both the costume design and atmosphere is stimulating. It is a credit to the production team for building a believable world in a gloomy castle, one that the audience feels part of as though they are constituents trapped in a conspiracy.

The background is deliberately static with the aesthetic of a Greek tragedy, offsetting the action on stage where characters are plotting, scheming, killing, while other actors are in ‘resting face’ mode, listening with a collective sigh about one man’s lust for power. The sword fight showdown is excellently choreographed and executed, a thrilling finish to this classic interpretation.

Given the long sitting and wordy dialogue, some more dramatic percussive elements could have been introduced, particularly during Banquo’s freaky comeback scene. The paper-mask faces of Banquo could have turned more sharply left or right in unison, giving the impression of artillery aiming towards the target.

The music overlay and drumbeats could also have been extended, and perhaps voiceovers to give a more sensory impression of Lady Macbeth’s descent into madness. Grief and terror is diluted somewhat by the very nature of reciting Shakespeare, so perhaps some more dramatic punctuation can help to push the boundaries of conventional staging.

The cast are very evidently having fun while fearlessly committing to truth telling of our times. World leaders take note – time will not be kind to a legacy built on greed, lust, conspiracy and betrayal.

Macbeth is playing at Genesian Theatre till 12 April 2025. For tickets and showtimes go to https://www.genesiantheatre.com.au/

IMAGES:

Anthony Burns, Homepix Photography P/L.

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