The students’ zest added huge energy
Each year, The Globe stages a production specifically aimed at young people, with the laudable goal of making theatre more accessible. This year’s choice is Macbeth — a fitting selection given the play’s enduring themes of ambition and power, which remain as relevant today as ever, writes Katie Kelly.
With Macbeth a staple of school curriculums, it’s a smart choice because this abridged version of the play loses none of its impact.
Set in a modern yet unspecified era, the characters are mostly clad in military fatigues. The set is mainly bare; with a sprinkling of camouflage nets doing some heavy lifting. There is nothing here that couldn’t be reproduced in a tour of schools if that was the intention.
The production opens with a striking image: three teenagers are chased down and shot, only to rise and return as the bloodied, hoodie-clad witches. Their acrobatics and unsettling presence were captivating and one of the production’s more memorable features. Another bold choice was casting Macduff as a woman, with Roxy Faridany giving a powerful performance in the role.
For many, Shakespeare’s language can be a barrier. The best actors overcome this with performances that bring the meaning out clearly. The Globe productions do not consistently achieve this goal, and this is sadly no exception. Some actors came close. Patrick Osborne as Macbeth showed some subtlety and depth, and Hanora Kamena was compelling as Lady Macbeth.
One of the evening’s highlights was the Porter’s speech — a witty, contemporary rewrite that hilariously roasted audience members. This winning entry from a nationwide student writing competition was a real crowd-pleaser. In fact, the students themselves were a highlight throughout — their zest and engagement added huge energy to the experience.
While it didn’t often unlock the power of Shakespeare’s language, the play succeeded in engaging its young audience. For that, The Globe deserves credit.
Verdict: 8/10 for effort; 6/10 for achievement.
The Globe, Bankside, SE1 until April 20th. Tickets: £5 – £75.
Booking and full details: https://www.shakespearesglobe.com/whats-on/
