Theatre Review: ‘Macbeth’ (Movable/Outdoors Production) by Chesapeake Shakespeare Company at PFI Historic Park

 “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare and directed by Ian Gallanar is being presented by the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company at PFI Historic Park in Ellicott City, Maryland.  This is a unique look at the classic as the performers, along with the audience, move to various parts of the park representing the different locales in the play.

PFI, or the Patapsco Female Institute, is now a Historical Park.  Stoned ruins of the 19th-century girls’ school provide a wonderful backdrop for classical productions.  The park is located on a wooded hillside above Ellicott’s City historic Main Street.

“Macbeth” is definitely one of The Bard’s most acclaimed and recognizable plays.  It’s theme of the lure of power and the corruption of the soul are universal and timeless.  The play is full of witches, bloody battles, tormented minds, and greed for wealth and power.  Shakespeare wisely sprinkled in some humorous moments to keep the play from being too dark to bear.  But, don’t misunderstand, this is one of Shakespeare’s most chilling and violent plays.  In this version, you will lose count of the dead bodies.

For Shakespeare buffs and neophytes, this movable “Macbeth” is a must see. Shakespeare outdoors is always a great experience, and this production adds another element.

Scott Alan Small is Macbeth.  In Small’s interpretation, Macbeth is a strong soldier, who becomes enchanted with the concept of power.  As his violence increases, he feels guilty for a bit, but when he thinks he is invincible, he becomes emboldened again.  Even when he faced with his mortality, he does not cower, a soldier until the end. 

Tamieka Chavis has the role most serious actress covet, Lady Macbeth.  Her “Out damn spot” scene is powerful.  Chavis and Small under the direction of Gallanar also bring a physical part to their relationship.  Their embraces and kisses are passionate.

Vince Eisenson and Terrance Fleming are standouts as Banquo and Macduff.  Eisenson plays the friend who loses his trust in Macbeth. The actor creates great sympathy from the crowd when Macbeth turns on him.  The soliloquy when Banquo reveals his concerns about Macbeth spotlights this former ally’s fears for his own and his sons’ safety. Fleming’s Macduff, the soldier and patriot and who must make that awful decision to help his country or his family, is equally as moving.  When he personally finds out to what lengths Macbeth’s terror can reach, we see him emotionally break down and then steel himself to seek revenge.

Mabelle Fomundam, Bess Kaye and Molly Moores are eerie and frightening as the Three Sisters.  Their chanting scene in Act II is wonderfully choreographed, and that they are able to do it repetitively, due to the moving audience, is a credit to their talent and the direction.  I also admire the way they often pose, looking like old Celtic ruins in the shadows.  Molly Moores is also a touching Lady Macduff and Bess Kaye nobly plays Ross, a Scottish thane.

The humor in “Macbeth” is left to the porter played by Frank B. Moorman. After the horrendous murder of the king, Shakespeare uses this character for comic relief.  Moorman plays the inebriated servant to get every laugh.  I like the director’s idea of having him lying passed out on the ground right before one of the more frightening moments.  Moorman also does a fine job as Duncan, King of Scotland and as A Scottish Doctor.

Ian Charles also gives a notable performance as Malcolm, Duncan’s eldest son and the usurped heir to the throne.

Almost all the supporting actors play multiple roles, an admirable feat with all the changes in locales in the park.  In addition to those already mentioned are Maria Marsalis, Theodore Sherron III, Christian Wilson, Taylor Rekus, Madison Steiner and Juliet Jacob.  All of these young talents are theatrical interns from various colleges.

Gallanar’s direction helps keep the pace going and keeps the electricity in the performances as the actors and crew travel about the park.  The whole concept of a movable production at this location is intriguing.  Gallanar makes the experience worthwhile even for Shakespeare purists like myself.  Though there are some rough spots, for instance having to smell the awful aroma from the port-a-potties on the way to the Three Sister’s coven.

The ability to mount a production of a moveable “Macbeth” is due to some of the excellent technical skills of some of the designers and support crew.  Kristina Lambdin’s costumes are not only Elizabethan in flavor but allow the actors to change quickly and move easily on the, sometimes, rough terrain. 

Daniel O’Brien’s Scenic and Lighting Design also has to be mobile.  The lights are moved and set quickly in each location, especially helpful after dark.  O’Brien is also the Technical Director.  Bess Kaye, in addition to her acting chores, was the fight choreographer.  All the murders, sword fights and battles go off without a snag. 

A nod to the Stage Manager, Lydia McCaw, and her Assistant Katie Nisbet, for getting all the performers and crew to each site promptly.  Also, to Kyle Rudgers as Production Manager for making this all run so effortlessly. Also getting some special recognition are Wardrobe Supervisor, Mindy Braden for all those costume changes, and House Managers Donna Burke, Pamela Forton and Mary Pohlig for moving the crowd around so quickly and courteously.

For Shakespeare buffs and neophytes, this movable “Macbeth” is a must see. Shakespeare outdoors is always a great experience, and this production adds another element.

Running Time: Two hours and 15 minutes with an Intermission.

This moveable “Macbeth” will play at PFI until June 23, 2019.  You can bring a picnic meal.  However, remember you will be moving, and there is not a place to safely store anything.  You should make most of it disposable.  If you bring carry coolers or chairs to the park, you leave them at your own risk.  You will be walking or standing outdoors for most of the performance.  Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing.  Remember you will be in the park at night.  Bug spray and sunscreen are made available by CSC. Folding chairs and other seats are available at some of the sites.  There are steps to deal with as well.  If you can’t climb them, make sure you tell the House Manager.  It is also advisable to have a flashlight.

If you have any questions about this production, you can get it online, including tickets and directions to the park.  Audience size will be limited to allow the crowd to enjoy the full experience of being up close to the traveling action.  You are encouraged to purchase your tickets in advance but the ticket tent opens 90 minutes before the show.