Something wicked this way comes to the Cincinnati Shakespeare Company as they open their latest production of William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Macbeth. The shortest of The Bard’s tragedies (and this reviewer’s personal favorite), it dramatizes the physically violent and damaging psychological effects of political ambitions and power. Director Christopher V. Edwards’ re-imagination of the doomed Scot is placed in the early days of the Cold War giving it an even more relatable feel.
The Designers of Macbeth
The production staff at CSC is one of the best in the business and this labor of love helps to showcase just how great they are. Scenic Designer Jon Savage gives a haunting, dystopian background fit for a tragedy. Rife with vintage media players of all sorts, metal scaffolding, and nylon draping for days, neither the characters nor the audience will feel entirely at ease in the space–in the best way possible (I felt like I was in a video game I very much wanted to play). Costume design by Nia Safarr Banks complements the aesthetics beautifully and each character’s costume is an extension of their portrayal.
Particular kudos to Sound Designer Zach Bennett whose vision solidifies the unearthly vibe. Also, kudos to the incomparable Gina Cerimele-Mechley whose Intimacy and Fight Direction are second to none.
The Performing Artists
No disrespect to those portraying male characters, but this Macbeth belongs to the ladies. The proverbial Greek chorus of our three witches leads the way on this one and they tell their story well. Brava to Sara Mackie, Elizabeth Chinn Malloy, and Aiden Sims for mastering being constantly present on stage without compromising the story. Also, with Kelly Mengelkoch in multiple roles, including the witch queen Hecate, and you have yourself a good foundation.
Adding to the double-X chromosome genius is Jasimine Bouldin as Lady MacDuff. Ms. Bouldin never fails when she is tasked to depict utter heartbreak and (spoiler alert) her character has plenty of that to go around. In that same vein of tragic endings, is Hayley Guthrie’s Lady Macbeth. While Lady Macbeth’s end is a wee bit less benevolent than Lady MacDuff’s, Ms. Guthrie’s portrayal allows for far more sympathy than one might expect. Her exceptional and effective physicality in the role is matched only by her literal partner in crime, the incredible Darnell Pierre Benjamin as our titular character.
But let’s not forget the boys: Mr. Benjamin’s Macbeth is completely and utterly his own. His roller coaster of a character arc is handled expertly and believably. In addition, tackling another tumultuous narrative trajectory is Billy Chace as Banquo, friend to Macbeth and fellow soldier on borrowed time. Mr. Chace’s emotional journey strikes a chord with many of us “regular” human beings with a little zombification thrown in for good measure. In short, a strong and capable ensemble of actors grace the stage for this iteration.
The Sweet and Lowdown
While the pacing could certainly be a bit quicker in this show, that is clearly not the energy the director has in mind. I am always up for a reimagining of a script–and while this version might not tickle everyone’s fancy, it is definitely worth a watch if you are a fan of a disturbing sort of Kubrick-esque feel, a smart integration of theatre and media, or simply the text of Macbeth itself.
Tickets to Macbeth
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company’s Macbeth runs now through March 23rd and it is selling out quickly! For more information about the show and/or to purchase tickets, please contact the Box Office online or by phoning (513) 381-2273.
NOTE: This production contains depiction of violence, the use of prop guns, mature themes, as well as strobe lights, loud noises, and fog effects.
Run Time: 2.5 hours, including intermission
