Theatre ReviewsTom Williams

Macbeth

By William Shakespearemacbeth at first folio theatre

Directed by Nick Sandys

At First Folio Theatre

Shakespeare’s tragedy haunts under-the-stars at the Peabody Estate in Oakbrook

Featuring terrific stage combat and fine period costumes, “The Scottish Play” work nicely outdoors on a perfect summer night. First Folio Theatre’s outdoor stage at the Peabody Estate in Oakbrook has been the home of many fine productions of The Bard’s plays. Nick Sandys, an excellent actor and fine fight choreographer, directs a Macbeth rich in stage combat and eerie atmosphere.

macbeth at first folio theatre

Shakespeare’s darkest drama is a tale of passion, power, guilt and revenge. It is a psychological thriller wherein the line between reality and imagination is blurred and where nothing is as it seems–where fair is foul and foul is fair. This stage worthy production has its moments–especially from the three witches–Michael Goldberg, Maggie Kettering and Jazmin Corona. These three were the personification of pure evil. Nathan Hosner’s performance as Macbeth–while most worthy–didn’t go far enough toward the depths of emotions. Patrice Egleston, as Lady Macbeth, came closer to level of deep emotions. Once these two dig deeper, their agonizing will render truer.

macbeth at first folio

Michael Goldberg anchors as the evil Witch #1 while Aaron Graham’s Malcolm, E. B. Smith’s Macduff and Patrick Clear’s Duncan offered fine performances.  The production values and the serviceable performances makes this rendering a suitable summer outing. The Bard’s dark tragedy reminds us that we still need a moral basis to keep evil in check. Bring  food & drinks and picnic with The Bard and his tragic folks.

Recommended

Tom Williams

At First Folio Theatre, 31st Street & Rt 83, Oakbrook, IL, call 630-986-8067, tickets $28 for adults–$23 for students/seniors, www.firstfolio.org, Wednesdays through Sundays at 8:15 pm, running time is 2 hours, 40 minutes with intermission, through August 9, 2009

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