Fierce, strong, passionate, and utterly enthralling, Crash Theatre Co and House of Oz’s Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence defines the phrase “a must see”, captivating audiences of all ages at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
An ingenious musical retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, follows an ambitious, colourfully characterised High School girls netball team, and the ensuing drama when their new Year 12 Captain is announced… never has a modern group felt more destined to be Shakespearean figures.
With fearsome and ferocious Mac (Orla Jean Poole) at the helm, the production navigates the twists and turns of her utter determination to achieve leadership. Bloodthirsty and menacing when delivering Shakespearean monologues, the brilliance of Courtney McManus’s script strikes the perfect comedy: Mac’s severity is humorously undercut with her earnest justifications that she’s wanted this “since Year 7”. Similarly, the three witches appear in this rendition as a pop band come-to-life, ‘The Dagger Divas’, serenading Mac with their harmonious support. Poole is particularly skilled in simultaneously conjuring Shakespeare’s greatest anti-hero, whilst still embodying an ambitious, enthusiastic, and, in some ways, stereotypical teenage girl.
The performances of every cast member are zealous, powerful and punchy; particular standouts include Shannon Rogers’ sassy “cool girl” Chloe MacDuff, Kate Sisley’s vocal prowess as heartfelt Summer Banqo, and Gabriella Munro’s energetic and engrossing performances as Jess Malcolm, and one of ‘The Dagger Divas’.
The show’s original music (composed by Bec Price (PROJECT BEXX) and with lyrics by Ana Ferreira Manhoso, Bec Price, and Courtney McManus) is nothing short of brilliant. This electro-pop musical hosts addictive new hits, such as ‘Trap a Rat’, ‘Pick Your Player’, and ‘Thunder Lightning Rain’.
If nothing else this Fringe, make sure to indulge in this impeccable showcase of Australian talent; Shakespeare’s Macbeth looks particularly good in this shade of neon pink.
Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence runs until 25 August, at 4.15pm, Assembly George Square Gardens at Studio One.
Buy tickets here.
Image by K Darius Photography, provided to The Student as press.