Macbeth
At Frederic Wood Theatre until March 31
Tickets: 604-822-2678, ubctheatre.com
The Scottish play is a major undertaking: epic in scale with larger than life characters. Is there an actor who hasnt dreamed of playing Macbeth? And so Patrick New (MFA Directing student) embraced a huge challenge with student actors at what will be, for some of them, the beginning of their careers.
While there were some genuinely fine moments, opening night went off at a gallop. It may have been opening night jitters but it felt like many of these young actors just wanted to get it over with. More likely, this production needs a few more performances to find its feet.
But its not without its successes, either. Nicholas Harrisons fight choreographymostly framed in slow motion against a blood-red backgroundis chilling. The final clash between Macduff (Mitch Hookey) and Macbeth (Alexander Keurvorst) is especially exciting due to the youthful energy of these two performers who whirl and duck as the swords slash through the air. Live pipers on stage (composer/piper Andrew Douglas assisted by 12-year-old piper Carraig New) added authenticity to the production. An interesting directorial choice, not without some justification, is to keep the weird sisters (Georgia Beaty, Melanie Reich and Tracy Schut) on stage pretty much throughout the playeven speaking some of Macbeths lines.
Macbeth and Lady Macbeth (Christine Bortolin) are huge boots to fill. Both young actors improved later in the play and it would be interesting to see this production again later in the run to see how they grow into these massive roles.
A standout amongst the two dozen students on stage is Mitch Hookey as Macduff. His phrasing is excellent and, despite his youth, he brings a very adult sensibility to the role. Im betting well see him at Bard on the Beach soon after graduation.
FLOP! Its not. Anton Lipovetskys one-man mini-musical is the sweetest thing this side of Sondheim. Its at Studio 1398 until April 1.
