Camden New Journal - Theatre: Macbeth

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The Review - THEATRE by PETER GRUNER
Published: 7 June 2007

Foul is fair at Open Air

MACBETH
Open Air Theatre

THE stage erupts with gunfire, explosions and air raid sirens, creating an atmosphere of tension and at times terror at the Open Air Theatre in Regent’s Park.
For the new production of Macbeth there is a sparse set consisting of a few metal containers placed around a bleak yard with a large puddle in it. At the start leading characters drive onstage in a dusty-looking car reminiscent of old war films.
Otherwise the production defies attempts to pin down time and place. There is a mishmash of costume that has here the hint of fighters in the Crimea, there the look of beret-wearing guerrillas.
Appearances bow to the Scottish theme with tartan sashes, but at one point cast members perform what appears to be a Cossack dance.
Director Edward Kemp manages, with varying degrees of success, to present the timelessness of fear and insecurity in a war-torn society. The pitiless murder of Lady Macduff (Hattie Ladbury) and her children is carried out by assassins in terrorist-style balaclavas.
The three weird sisters (Emma Clayton, Olivia Darnley and Anna Lowe) appear suitably harridan-like while having the air of rowdy schoolgirls. However, their constant presence, peering from odd corners, adds to the menace. The famous hubble bubble scene is visually the stongest in the production, with the boiling cauldron replaced by three blazing bins.
Macbeth (Anthony Byrne) is suitably weak and ineffectual at the start and manages to build the tension to its bloody finale. And Sarah Woodward as Lady Macbeth gives one of the strongest performances, complete with manic smile and hysterical laughter.
The ghost of Banquo (Mark Meadows) puts in a gorily effective appearance when he strides across the table at the dinner party.
This performance zips along with plenty of action but perhaps the outdoor setting contributes to a loss of intimacy that reduces the mood of guilt and horror. But it is an exciting, innovative production and a great night out in the outdoor theatre’s seventy-fifth year.
Until September 15
08700 601 811

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