By Tyler Marr

A modern take on a classic make: Spark Theatre brings Macbeth to P.A.

Oct 17, 2017 | 8:20 PM

Set in a post-apocalyptic world after the downfall of civilization, Spark Theatre is looking to portray an applicable, modern rendition of Shakespeare’s Macbeth later this month.

In an upcoming production, the company will seek to explore the world of politics, power, and influence in a theoretical world made bare.

“Catastrophe has taken everyone back to the most basic survival mode,” Director Roxanne Dicke said. “What would leadership look like?”

The tale is simple, but in true Shakespearean style, quickly spirals into a chaotic debacle. Macbeth, a brave Scottish general, is influenced by a prophecy he will become the next King Of Scotland. But after spurred into action by his wife, Lady Macbeth, guilt and paranoia overtake his soul and mind and he launches into a protective murderous rampage. But Dicke has spun the concept around and delved deep into a world based in the future, yet relevant today. 

“I think that is the intent of Shakespeare, is to make it relevant for the audience you are producing it for,” she said.

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Most prevalent is the reversal of roles often played by males, now taken upon by females. Some of the lords are played by women and Dicke has doubled up roles not often seen.

Most notably, Malcolm is played by a woman.

“It was something I really wanted to establish,” she said. “I think we are in a place of exploring gender politics, and we are exploring the energy behind any kind of movement and government, and what does that mean and how does that work.”

A full gambit of performers fills the cast. From highly seasoned performers, including two fight experts brought in for the final clash, to a wide range of local actors and actresses.

For those more foreign to Shakespeare’s plays, Dicke suggests this rendition of Macbeth is a great place to start.

“This is really, really applicable to where we are today,” she said. “There are elements of Prince Albert as much as there are elements of Scotland. This piece is about us.”

Playing Malcolm is Teegan Jeffers. She believed it was important to take on this character as a female.

“To see a woman as a warrior and someone who has nobility and is capable of ruling a country and a land after an apocalypse. It is cool to explore those ideas as a woman,” she said.

With the play moulded to echo modern themes and reflect the often chaotic world, Jeffers said it has sparked passion and relatability for much of the cast. She hopes the audience feels this as well.

“I hope they come in with an open mind. This is not your mother’s Shakespeare,” she said. “We see a lot of violence and real life stuff. Come in with an open mind, place yourself in that world and enjoy a classic story.”

The show runs from Oct.19 to 21 at the E.A. Rawlinson Centre for the Arts.

tyler.marr@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @JournoMarr