Macbeth

Macbeth
By William Shakeseare.Director: Terri Brabon. THEATREiNQ. Queen’s Gardens, Townsville. 18 – 29 September, 2013.

The tropical ease of Queens Gardens may seem a world away from the battlefields of Scotland but, as darkness fell, one could not help being drawn into a sinister tale of supernatural, power-lust and murder.

TheatreiNQ’s production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth presented a gripping tale, told by a strong leading cast and ensemble.

Director Terri Brabon introduced an original and creative element to the whole supernatural theme. The weird sisters, rather than possessing their own power to predict Macbeth’s future, became the pawns of three children whose malevolent power was starkly contrasted with their appearance of innocent childhood.

Brendan O’Connor in the title role presented a strong characterisation; his progress toward the tragic hero’s inevitable demise was managed skilfully. Some of the most powerful moments of the play occurred between O’Connor and John Goodson (Banquo) in the banquet scene and later with Sid Brisbane (Macduff) in the final showdown.  

Terri Brabon brought a loving aspect of Lady Macbeth to the stage, and this element set up Macbeth’s frenzied rejection as a contributing factor to her madness. The sleepwalking scene was both powerful and engrossing. 

Tension of the play was broken by Ray Dickson as the delightfully drunken Porter of the Gate.

Staging was simple, with adequate elements to suggest a variety of locations. The imposing skeleton looming behind Macbeth’s throne became a sordid reflection of his path to power.

The finale lifted the spirits by way of traditional Scottish dance, making “Macbeth” a memorable theatrical event.

Donna Ahlers.

Images: Terri Brabon as Lady Macbeth and Brendan O'Connor as Macbeth. Photographer: Chrissy Maguire

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