Macbeth

GRADS' very short run of “The Scottish Play” featured many of Perth's foremost "Shakespearian" actors, and a thoughtful academic direction from Shakespeare aficionado Grant Malcolm. 

Set on a bare stage, strong decisions were made with costuming by designer Merri Ford, who opted for a look that evoked Scotland circa 1040, felt authentic and was beautifully realised. Gary Wetherilt designed the 'set', which might be more accurately described as large properties, including a truly impressive cauldron. Keith Anderson's lighting design was dark and atmospheric, but it was sometimes a little too dim for audience comfort, while Myles Wright's composition and underscoring was very emotive, but occasionally drowned dialogue.

The infamous title role was played by the incomparable Stephen Lee, a mature king, with much depth, who was expertly matched Jenny Howard as Lady Macbeth, who created a seemingly indomitable character, whose unravelling was expertly drawn. While their characters are dangerous and volatile, the performances were tight and precise.

In such a large cast it is difficult to single out all of the performances, with all 26 cast members making an impression.
The trio of witches had wonderful synchronicity, were very much a team, and were very, very dark. Impressive work from Grace Edwards, Sylvia Cornes and Anka Cikic

Michael Balmer's Banquo was a highlight - with his post mortem appearances, with makeup by Yvette Drager-Wetherilt, particularly unnerving.

Jeff Watkins was very moving as Macduff, with palpable grief learning of the demise of his lovely family. Duncan became a Queen, and was powerfully played by Sue Lynch. I particularly enjoyed the return to the stage of Kristine Lockwood - providing welcome light diversion as the Porter.

Special mention to the next generation of Shakespearian performers - still of school age. Felix Malcolm convincingly played Fleance (for a second time), Davis McCann (Second Murderer) nicely despatched younger brother Isaac (a compelling Young Macduff), Connie Wetherilt worked hard as the Gentlewoman and Neve Havercroft was an ethereal apparition and convincing worried servant.

GRADS' Macbeth was a wonderfully authentic production performed with love and enthusiasm with appeal to both the regular patron of Shakespeare and the reluctant student. It was well worth seeing.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Myles Wright