Cappies Review: Stone Bridge’s Production of ‘Macbeth’

Review by Jessica Littman, Heritage High School

The mystique of far off lands, magical prophesies, and bloodshed has always enticed audiences to the story of Macbeth. Stone Bridge High School performed this classic tale with aplomb to make for an excellent production. Shakespeare’s epic came to life on the stage with a post-apocalyptic twist that captivated the audience with wild makeup, original music, and radioactive decay.

Macbeth, by William Shakespeare, is said to have been originally performed in 1611.This tale follows Macbeth, a general, who meets three witches with a prophecy that he will one day be king. Knowing this, he murders the present king to expedite the process. One murder leads to the next, as Macbeth and his wife are eaten by guilt and slowly go mad. Stone Bridge took the classic story and set it in a post-apocalyptic world where the oil has run out, and the thirst for power is strong. Macbeth’s quest leads him to treachery, loss, and eventually death.

Leading the show, Ryan Bateman (Macbeth) portrayed the iconic role with energy, characterized movements, and a consistent southern accent. His dynamic venture through the second half of the show left the audience excitedly wondering what he would do next. By Bateman’s side for the majority of the show, Elizabeth Morton (Lady Macbeth) justly caused nervous apprehension among audience members as she progressed slowly into insanity. Although some actors were inconsistent with their characters, they maintained an energy and commitment to choices that carried the show. Sierra Carlston (Lady Banquo) carried herself in a way that brought smiles to the audience members’ faces with her charisma. Every time she was onstage, her presence and authenticity overtook the scene.

The ensemble of the three witches truly made an impact among the viewers. Aliya Qureshi, Emma Strong, and Gretchen Dunne all created distinct characters and portrayed three entirely separate versions of the evil witches. The witches’ minions also brought life and energy to the scenes they were featured in. Although at times the audience got lost in the story, the ensemble held their expression and energy for the duration of the performance.

Most of the technical elements for this production were quite impressive. The set, although simple, added to the setting; the versatile and dilapidated-looking pieces fit with the post apocalyptic theme. The sound was audible through the duration of the show and included effects and student-composed music that greatly enhanced the scenes. The lighting was creatively used to distinguish between thought and speech of the characters. Although was sometimes delayed or inconsistent, the lights added an element of tone and mystery to the scenes. The hair, makeup, and costumes were strikingly well done; each character had their own distinct look that changed with them throughout the show.

Working with such a classic script as this can be challenging, but the Stone Bridge High School drama department accepted the challenge and made it their own. Macbeth turned out to be a fine production filled with treason, twists, and tragedy.