In the shadowed corners of an Edinburgh warehouse, a riveting rendition of William Shakespeare's "Scottish Play," Macbeth, captivated audiences. Led by Ralph Fiennes in the role of the ambition-driven Macbeth, joined by Indira Varma as his scheming wife. This production takes audiences on a journey where the line between good and evil becomes blurred from the outset. From Liverpool to Edinburgh, and soon to London and New York, this unconventional setting is a great reimagining of a play that still resonates today.
An Unconventional Immersive Macbeth
Forget about velvet seats and ornate curtains; this production takes a twist of innovation. The Royal Highland Centre transforms from an agricultural hub into a contemporary battlefield setting for Macbeth's tale of power, betrayal, and madness. The warehouse setting provides an eerie backdrop that creates an unexpected and unforgettable immersive theatrical experience.
Walking through a dystopian scene with a burnt-out car and a blazing brazier, guarded by soldiers, you can't help but feel the intensity of the production. There are numerous modern versions of Macbeth but this audacious approach to staging shakes the foundation of traditional theatre offering a visceral journey into one of literature's most powerful narratives.
The entry to the performance space channels you in a slow march across the battlefield creating a sense that you are part of the play. Refugees making a collective walk through the ravages of an unfolding civil war. Sat in my seat watching others enter, beckoned by soldiers, reinforced a feeling we were fleeing from a war-torn country.
Military aircraft boom overhead, the screech of missiles unleashed. Macduff (Ben Turner) stands to attention - the immovable military commander. White light blinds as the missile hits and Macduff evaporates to be replaced by three women. Crawling, screaming from the wreckage these weird sisters mutter the witches' opening prophetic words.
Fiennes and Varma: Stellar Performances of Tormented Royalty
Ralph Fiennes's portrayal of Macbeth is nothing short of extraordinary. From his first entrance, Fiennes already seems disturbed. Even before he descends into the abyss of Macbeth's psyche with increasing mental and physical intensity. His uncanny ability to convey Macbeth’s unravelling ambition and growing paranoia sets the tone for a production that is a demanding emotional journey for Fiennes.
Indira Varma stands his equal as Lady Macbeth, commanding the role with chilling calmness she only unravels in the final desperate moments of the sleepwalking scene. This Lady Macbeth is no haughty and noble schemer. Varma’s portrayal is more chilling and sinister. She’s a middle-class housewife whose vaulting ambition for her husband is boundless. She tells him how to murder as though she is providing instructions on how to put out the bins. Her fury at his failure to return the daggers could almost be her losing her temper at his forgetting to load the dishwasher.
Together, Fiennes and Varma depict cosy domestic normality starkly contrasting with the battle-scarred world outside their castle. The world is falling apart but we will hold everything together. That does not mean they are boring portrayals. Both, deliver stellar performances that bring out the tormented nature of their royal characters.
An Ensemble That Commands the Stage
While Fiennes and Varma shine in their respective roles, the ensemble cast should not be overlooked. Banquo's (Steffan Rhodri) portrayal is fraught with loyal concern but his doubt is evident from the outset. A simple backward glance reveals his uncertainty. Malcolm (Ewen Black) resonates with powerful youth and righteous dignity, while Macduff brings raw warrior energy that burns with a vengeance for his slaughtered family. Each performance contributes to this robust retelling.
Don't Miss This Groundbreaking Macbeth Production
Whether you’re a lifelong fan (as I am) or a curious newcomer, this production of Macbeth promises a new experience. Macbeth now moves on from Edinburgh. Theatre-goers in London and New York can look forward to their encounter with this unforgettable production. If you have the opportunity, grab your tickets now. More information and tickets are available from the production website.