Review by Jessica Flynn
There is something inherently magical about experiencing Shakespeare outdoors, and The Australian Shakespeare Company’s production of Macbeth in the park proved just how powerful the combination of nature and theatre can be. Staged under the looming shadows of towering trees and accompanied by the eerie whispers of the wind, this open-air rendition of the Scottish play provided a hauntingly immersive experience that brought the tragedy to life in unexpected ways.
The setting itself was one of the production’s greatest assets. The Royal Botanic Gardens in a Melbourne summer added another element to the atmosphere and plot. At the beginning of the play, just as the tension was beginning, the sun was bright and only just starting to set and then as Macbeth’s mind succumbed to the darkness so did we as we entered nightfall. In addition, the bats flying overhead and the trees rustling in critically tense moments seemed to be supporting actors. I especially enjoyed the actors using the full breadth of the space, using the audience and surrounding park, as well as the stage. The battle scenes took on a raw intensity as the actors fought with real dust rising around them. The natural elements added an unpredictable but compelling layer to the play.
The cast, clearly aware of the challenges of outdoor theatre, delivered performances brimming with energy and emotional depth to ensure every emotion was felt across the lawn. Hugh Sexton as Macbeth drew you in with his gripping soliloquies that boomed across the stage. His vocal and physical delivery choices carried the emotional heaviness of the script very well. Lady Macbeth, played by Nicole Nabout, was equally mesmerizing, her steely determination giving way to chilling unravelment in her later scenes. Jackson McGovern as Macduff found his groove after the intermission, delivering masterful outcries that plucked at the heart strongs – I was truly immersed in the world of Macbeth which was due entirely to the calibre and professionalism of the entire cast.
My favourite characters were the three witches delivering some of the most memorable moments of the night. Their makeup and costumes, designed by Karla Erenbots, were completely transformative as Elizabeth Brennan, Madeleine Somers, and Henny Walters also played completely different roles later in the piece. Their presence was genuinely unsettling, aided by eerie wicked laughter and a masterful use of light and sound. Their synchronized movements and haunting voices made their scenes feel almost ritualistic, reinforcing their role as the puppeteers of Macbeth’s fate.
I also really enjoyed that the production stayed true to the traditional setting of the Shakespeare world, I have been to other productions that made things more modern by introducing cell phones and the like, but I personally think it breaks the magic of a Shakespeare production. Glenn Elston’s vision was clear and cohesive to bring this story to life and stay true to its roots. I highly recommend that the audience does some pre-reading on the plot if you need a refresher!
Despite the many strengths of the production, there were minor challenges inherent to an outdoor performance. The occasional disruption from passing pedestrians or funny possum disruptions momentarily broke the spell. However, the cast adeptly projected their voices and maintained their command over the audience, ensuring that the emotional weight of the story remained intact. I would also encourage the audience to lean into it, the fresh air (and ability to bring your own wine and snacks – I opted for a DIY cheeseboard and grapes!) meant that it brought a very immersive feel to the production. Although I do recommend you open your crinkly snack packets during intermission!
Overall, this production of Macbeth was a triumph of creativity and atmosphere. By embracing the spaciousness of the Royal Botanic Gardens, the performance transformed Shakespeare’s classic tragedy into a uniquely immersive experience. The eerie beauty of nature, combined with strong performances and innovative staging, made for a compelling and unforgettable evening. For those seeking a fresh and visceral take on Macbeth, this open-air production proved that sometimes, the best theatre doesn’t need a stuffy room - it only needs a story, a willing audience, and the whispering winds of fate.
