ED2014 4/5 Reviews ED2014 Theatre Reviews

The Bunker Trilogy – Macbeth (Jethro Compton Productions)

By Patricia-Ann Young | Published on Saturday 16 August 2014

Atmospheric and engrossing, ‘The Bunker Trilogy: Macbeth’ reinvigorates Shakespeare’s infamous Scottish play. The theatre is deliberately claustrophobic, with the audience all hunched up on benches in an impressively authentic set, a bunker in the WW1 trenches. This, combined with some interaction with the audience, ensures that the production manages to be incredibly immersive, not the easiest feat, as Shakespeare’s work tends to be regarded with such reverence and respect it can sometimes be performed as if it’s a bloodless relic. Sam Donnelly is a powerful Macbeth, and, though a little too shouty at times, displays a remarkable talent. The production is an abridged version, so perhaps a check of Macbeth’s Wikipedia page is in order beforehand. Still, this production is a dynamic and impressive example of theatre.

C nova, until 25 Aug.
tw rating 4/5 | [Patricia-Ann Young]