Venues for live theatre in Christchurch have been decimated following the earthquakes. The Court Theatre, Theatre Royal, James Hay, Ngaio Marsh, Repertory Theatre... all are out of action, with fates already or yet to be determined. The Loons Circus Theatre Company in Lyttelton soldiered on until the last 6.3 dictated serious strengthening work.
A production of Macbeth, 'brutally slashed' by Joe Bennett and directed by Mike Friend, was scheduled. What to do? In keeping with the times the company decided to make use of the vacant space until recently occupied by the Volcano Cafe and Lava Bar. The audience would be sheltered under a heavy tarpaulin flanked by the ubiquitous containers - though still 'outdoors' as such - while the actors would be fully exposed to the elements.
Anna and I went last Thursday night. We picked up our tickets in the container on the right of the photo above and negotiated our way, none too certainly in the dark, across the planking and up into the seats. Facing us was a raked 'set', backed by high walls, the ground a mixture of large gravel, concrete block foundation and muddy ponds. Several braziers scattered around the set provided additional illumination, some warmth for the actors and plenty of atmosphere.
This version of Macbeth was physical, brutal, barbaric, elemental, tribal... The language took a back seat to the action, the sound effects and the set. A disappointment perhaps for Shakespearian devotees but this production was so right for its time. It took the earthquake devastation by the scruff of the neck and shook it all about. It was brave, fearless and a triumph (I thought).
I don't apologise for continuing reference to the earthquakes because this is the Christchurch reality. Living in the aftermath dominates every day, every conversation. Each week, as more central city buildings come down, there are also small triumphs and celebrations. Macbeth was a massive triumph and a celebration of creativity and endurance. Bravo!
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