David Tennant delivers a mesmerising performance in this deeply psychological production of the Scottish play.
This is a production of Macbeth unlike any other. Every word spoken surrounds the audience effortlessly, allowing them to really delve deep into the mind of both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth to make for compelling watching.
The way in which Max Webster has so thoroughly incorporated sound into this production,of course with the help of Gareth Fry whose work makes this feel a very intimate and personal experience. While some might find that having to wear headphones during this whole experience might feel isolating,others will find it completely enriching and filled with detail, allowing the audience to pick up every word and find new meaning to it. Fry’s approach of using binaural headphones is clever and never allows the audience to leave the horror of the story unfolding in front of them, particularly given the way in which we hear the witches whose prophecy has a major impact on Macbeth’s life – it is really disturbing to hear and not see them and leaves you wondering how close they are to you – even to the own point in which you think they have entered your own mind. It is undeniably creepy and clever.
At one hour and fifty minutes in terms of a running time, this is a production that in itself is not concerned about the events that happen (although the way in which it handles the ending is suitably chilling and horrific) but more about the characters themselves and the inner turmoil and rollercoaster of emotions experienced particularly by Macbeth and Lady Macbeth. It is sharply focused in this regard, leading a haunting atmosphere – with the help of some beautiful and lilting music that has a suitable Celtic feel about it performed brilliantly by the musicians hidden behind a box of glass, that enhances tension and drama in a subtle way. Perhaps it could be said that the way in which it breezes through many of the main events might leave people feeling slightly lacking the drama they come to expect from Macbeth, but it does offer a unique opportunity to re-evaluate the central characters.
At the same time, it is extremely detailed elsewhere as well as the use of sound. Bruno Poet’s lighting enhances the increasing darkness of the story as well as Macbeth’s mind as carries out more murderous deeds, while Lady Macbeth’s descent into despair is given sympathetic lighting. The way in which the murder of MacDuff’s wife and children is done in complete darkness is a powerful moment indeed, showing just how terrible our imaginations and minds can go in this type of situation . Rosanna Vize’s bare set allows the freedom of the bleakness of the story draw completely forward, adding a sense it is playing like a horror film – but in cool and calculated way and allows the characters prowl around almost as though they are doing a dance with a sense of uncertainty to it.
At the heart of it all, the performances shine through beautifully. David Tennant makes for an intriguing Macbeth, highlighting the character’s descent into obsession and madness powerfully – yet also finding touches of humour that are unexpected and catch the audience unawares – it is a thoroughly measured and engaging performance. Cush Jumbo is equally as powerful as Lady Macbeth – she beautifully conveys the character’s strength and belief in helping fulfil the witches prophecy but then captures her despair beautifully you can’t help feel for her . But they are surrounded by a talented cast – with special mention going to Jatinder Singh Randhawa as the Porter in an extraordinary moment engaging with the audience delightfully that somehow adds an extra dimension to the production.
This is a refreshing and intense way to experience Macbeth and it certainly leaves you feeling as though you have a deeper insight into the characters minds that is compelling from start to finish. This is a production to make you feel every emotion, making it a memorable production indeed.
By Emma Clarendon
Macbeth continues to play at the Donmar Warehouse until the 10th February 2024.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐