Globe Education Online

I was struck by the sheer violence and darkness of this production of "Macbeth," and all I can say is that I applaud Lucy Bailey and her wonderful cast, in particular Elliot Cowan and Laura Rogers, for bringing to life such a powerful psychological drama in such a visceral way (the all-black set was inspired). The danger of putting on "Macbeth" is that Macbeth can be portrayed as a bit of a fool for believing so readily in these witches. What I appreciated in Mr. Cowan's interpretation was the juxtaposition of his ambition and proven military prowess with his intensity--verging on mental instability--in taking what he hears from the witches and running with it. In his performance, I felt the strain of both fulfilling the witches' prophecy and coping with the guilt of murdering his mentor and, later, his best friend. I could sympathize with his mental breakdown while simultaneously condemning his heinous treachery and tyranny. In other productions, it's too easy to sit there and condemn Macbeth. In the end, there is no easy way out for Cowan's Macbeth, which made watching this production both psychologically disturbing yet profoundly moving. Thank you!

I've seen Macbeth twice on film and about 8 times on stage now, including the recent Cheek By Jowl here in Brighton during the Festival and last year (I think!) with Patrick Stewart at the Gielgud and though the latter was a stunning production with a heart-stopping ghost scene, I feel that the Globe's current production with it's visceral, emotionally tortured and guilt ridden performances express the essence of what I've always felt that the core of the play is about than any other production I've ever seen.

I stood with tears in my eyes many times during the play and Elliot Cowan's performance brought out all the awfulness of what he had done, and was doing even as he planned further slaughter. The witches were wonderfully sinister and Laura Rogers began so light and easy but soon slid down into a dark and desperate place. I really would want to shake the hand of everyone from the extraordinary performance of Frank Scantori across the cast to the delightfully innocent and playful Macduff children.

If it's possible, please pass on my thanks to everyone in the cast and of course the director Lucy Bailey and as always at the Globe, the musicians too. I cannot say how much pleasure I've had at the Globe which for me brings Shakespeare to life in a way that no other theatre in my experience. I would have loved to attend the Macbeth study day but with the train fares on top it all mounts up, but I'm sure it will be wonderful.

Definitely the best production of my favourite Shakespeare play - particularly loved the young sexy, loved up Macbeths as well as the good use of the 'captive audience'. Will be returning for a second viewing on the final day!

Very much want to see more of Lucy Baily's work! She rocks!!