Shakespeare In High Park: Macbeth

Philippa Domville and Hugh Thompson in Macbeth. Photo by David Hou.

Macbeth has long been haunted by theatrical superstition. Famously cursed, the “Scottish Play” carries with it a certain otherworldly gravitas that distinguishes it as one of Shakespeare’s darkest tragedies.

This summer, Canadian Stage and the Department of Theatre, Faculty of Fine Arts, York University have teamed up to present a new production of Macbeth in repertoire with The Taming of the Shrew (on alternating nights) at Shakespeare in High Park. This is the first time a tragedy other than Romeo and Juliet has been staged at High Park, and the first time in more than 20 years that Canadian Stage has presented two Shakespearean productions at the High Park Ampitheatre.

Directed by York University MFA program graduate Ker Wells, this Macbeth features remarkable choreography and fight direction, a simple, Celtic-inspired set by Lindsay C. Walker, sleek costumes by Victoria Wallace, atmospheric lighting by Laird MacDonald and evocative sound design by Lyon Smith. The atmosphere is just right for a story about a man’s decent into murder and madness.

Featuring a fine ensemble, and strong leads in Hugh Thompson as the power hungry Macbeth and Philippa Domville as his ambitious wife Lady Macbeth, this production taps into the spiritual depth of the Bard’s work with eerie effectiveness. The three witches (played by Domville, Sophie Goulet and Jennifer Dzialoszynski) are especially creepy, terrorizing Macbeth with ominous premonitions and the conjuring of a menacing child spectre. Kevin MacDonald is excellent in the role of Banquo, one of the show’s highlights being his ghostly appearance at the royal feast.
Other notable performances include Greg Gale’s thoughtful Malcolm, and Ryan Hollyman’s emotionally-charged MacDuff.

Don’t miss this imaginative outdoor staging of a Shakespearean classic. Macbeth runs until September 1 with performances on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 8pm. Visit canadianstage.com for more information.

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