Macbeth

Perth and Peel have had the pleasure of a growing number of Shakespeare productions in the past few years, but we are rarely treated to the Scottish play. Stray Cats Theatre brought a particularly dark retelling of Macbeth to the Fishtrap Theatre for a short season.

Playing on a multi-level set with hints of castle wall in what might be Aberdeen grey granite, (Set design is by Bronwyn White and Karen Francis), The play is boldly and deliberately theatrically lit from a design by Justin Crossley and Asha Perry. Costumes, created from a concept from Karen Francis are a blend of modern and faux mediaeval, but they serve the show well. 

In the title role is Alex White, tackling one of Shakespeare's most complex characters in his first attempt at The Bard. A committed, thoughtful, and well-drawn performance. Meg Willis is a young Lady Macbeth, who with her petite stature, Titian tresses, and elfin features, and initially costumed in Forest Green, could be part fairy, veela or siren - a dramatic element that works well. Her appearance in regal red after becoming queen is matched with self-assurance and power that eventually crumbles.

The wyrd sisters / witches are given more prominence and greater stage time in this production, and additional “shadow witches” extend the metaphor of their omnipresence. Strong, cohesive performances from Rhiannon Francis, Teaghan Lowry and Tara Elliott and their supporting chorus. 

Braedan Geuer was strong as Banquo, both in human and ghost form. Jessica Nanai was very strong as Lady Macduff, with a believable partnership with Andy Vernie, whose Macduff revealed strong emotion. Hunter Perry was a regal and worthy Malcolm.

Bronwyn White is a strong Hecate, Lachlan McNeil is a convincing Duncan (despite a questionable wig), Royce Newell is commanding as Donalbain, Georgia Turner has lovely swagger as Lennox, Aiden Thomas is a worthy hero as Ross and Monique Kinnest is a hearty Menteith.

Good work from Mitchell Vickers (Young Siward), Jaxson Bower (Fleance), Amy Elliott (Dr Cadel), the Thomas Hennessy (Seyton/Cawdor) and Jake Gardiner (Porter) in smaller roles.

Well attended at the final matinee, Stray Cats’ Macbeth was a worthy presentation of one of Shakespeare's best plays.

Kimberley Shaw