I have to freely admit that I hate Shakespeare! I think this is partly because I was force fed a diet of the Baird at school by a rather strict old fashioned school-ma’am.
I did warm to Shakespeare’s works a little in later years when I saw one interpreted in ballet and much later the opera versions of several of his plays – but only a little. As part of my day job as a theatre reviewer it’s always with gritted teeth that I approach a production of his work.
However I must admit that Amy Leach’s production of Macbeth at Leeds Playhouse has changed my outlook on Shakespeare.
The early moments of the play fired my imagination and took me to another level – I thought I am going to enjoy this.
A cacophony of loud noises, search lights set in scaffolding towers scan the cavernous stage and revolve around the area, a huge draw bridge, swirling fog and atmospheric music are an overture to action – and what action!
There’s an excellently choreographed battle that would not seem out of place in Game of Thrones accompanied by the sounds of warfare – I am hooked.
Hayley Grindles striking set design borders on brilliance whilst Chris Davey’s lighting is a technical triumph.
Amy Leach is always inventive with her Shakespearian productions and sometimes they do not quite bode well with the bread and butter theatre goer or the purist Shakespearian devotee – but this time I personally feel she’s got it just right.
Tachia Newall’s MacBeth is powerful, commanding, charismatic and dashing. He flirts with disaster and death and arouses an emotion in his audience that almost feels sorry for him.
There is genuine chemistry and tenderness between him and Jessica Baglow’s Lady Macbeth. She is feisty and scheming but you are never allowed to forget the wickedness that lies within her. She is a wife with designs on power and there’s no getting away from that.
Leach’s production is seamless and energetic and has its gory moments but all in all has a multi-talented ensemble that support the production beautifully.
Whether you love the works of Shakespeare or hate them this production is a must see – and could change your mind!
As I left the theatre I had to admit I had really enjoyed ‘the Scottish play’ but wondered just what my old literature teacher would have thought of this.
Runs until 19th March at Leeds Playhouse.
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