Macbeth

The dark aspects of the play give limited scope for a more light-hearted approach. Yet, while still exploring the descent into evil that Macbeth (Andy Delves) undergoes, OZ ACT manages to keep the play in a relatively unthreatening sphere. Delves makes the spiralling descent from decency to depravity an interesting journey.

The outdoor setting is evocative and the elements in this performance were certainly in the play’s favour; howling winds and changeable weather conditions added to the mood and atmosphere. The natural setting lends itself to a dynamic use of performance space and more consideration to this could have reduced the tendency to deliver the play in an episodic manner. Aspects such as the apparitions of Banquo (Jamal Ali) were nicely executed.

Lady Macbeth (Marie Claire Tchernomoroff) seemed uncertain about her disposition and her apparent sweetness could have been exploited in a more calculated manner to disguise her deceitful plans. Lady Macduff (Sarah Breen) captured the sinister tones of the play well and Eleanor Ruth impressively demonstrates her range and versatility as a performer across all her roles (Donalbain, Witch, Young Siward).

The witches (Sarah Breen, Marie Claire Tchernomoroff, Eleanor Ruth) are portrayed as whimsical rather than menacing and they toy with Macbeth in a charming and playful manner. OZ ACT have created an endearing performance while still pointing to some of the wretched elements that consumes this ominous text.

Patricia Di Risio