Damariscottia, Maine - It’s “Macbeth”, alright, one of Shakespeare’s most powerful tragedies – a tragedy of the mind. A tale of misplaced ambition and consuming desire for power, in which we recognize the psychological effects and moral decline resulting from the first willful choice of evil - a choice which costs Macbeth everything of value and meaning in his life and, in the end, life, itself.
Nothing outdated about this story. It smacks of people and politics, 2013. That’s why Director Griff Braley chose to set it squarely in today’s world. Modern costumes and technology, clean set, complex lighting and computer projected images juxtapose in the most interesting fashion, with the beautiful language of Shakespeare, adapted for a techno-thriller-movie feel.
“This is like guys’ night out,” noted one preview audience member, “with all this action, tension, and men on stage.” The fight scenes, directed by fight coordinator Mark Bedell, will have audience wincing and flinching, as chases unfold, blows erupt and gunshots explode in the intimate setting of the Parker Poe Theater.
A savvy cast is led by a young Macbeth, Chris Davis, whose command of the language and infinite focus and energy are pure joy to experience, and Elise Voigt as Lady Macbeth, who adeptly carries us through the rapid descent from arrogance to madness to death.
“ ‘Macbeth’ has been a true collaboration - my favorite kind of work,” notes Director, Griff Braley, “where the scenes belong to the tech crew, the fight choreographer and the actors – as much as to the director. Several of these actors have not only played in ‘Macbeth’ before, but, like myself, actually entered the world of theater as a result of their first encounter with this piece. This process has been both challenging and rewarding, and Heartwood is ready to bring a bit of Shakespeare to the Midcoast.”
Screw your courage to the sticking place, this weekend. Experience Shakespeare’s timeless genius through a new lens, with this modern day adaptation of “Macbeth.” Content suitable for adults and mature teens.
Show sponsors: Cheney Insurance Agency and Newcastle Square Realty. Season sponsor: Bath Savings Institution.
“Macbeth” runs April 26, 27 and May 3, 4, 9-11 at 7:30 pm with one 3:00 matinee, Sunday, May 5 in the Parker Poe Theater, Newcastle. Tickets are $10/students, $20/adults (advance), $22 (at the door). Reservations: 563-1373 or boxoffice@heartwoodtheater.org. For details/directions visit www.heartwoodtheater.org.
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