From inception to performance a lot of hard work goes into a Bay Theatre Players production. It's all done by volunteers who range in age from young teens to wherever the ages decide to limit us, by those with professional skills or none whatsoever, or for those who just have a love of live theatre and want to help make the magic happen.
Our current production Macbeth is no different. Leading on from our adult Shakespeare workshops which led to our successful production of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ the desire to stage another of his tales was too tempting.
Led by Artistic Director Sam Lloyd, one could argue that the three witches who open the play convened early, at some point last year when the previous experience is a happy memory and the itch has once again begun, but in the guise of Sam alongside Associate Directors Kath Joyce and Jack Helmore.
So Macbeth it had to be, one of Shakespeare's most famous tales full of murder, betrayal, desire, love, war and spirits. How could we not?
Casting in our small community is always an interesting exercise but Macbeth attracted regular members as well as some new faces, from those who usually perform in musicals to some who dare to be brave and strut upon our stage.
From wherever they have come the challenge to build such rich, well known characters has been magnified within Sam's vision for the play. Each cast member has risen to that challenge with good grace and humour to take this production to another level.
Bill Douglas is magnificent as Macbeth, with Sam Lloyd creating a multifaceted Lady Macbeth whose journey of possession leads to madness. Martyn Lloyd as Banquo and Jeremy Kemp as Macduff add such richness and pathos with their characterisation it is moving to behold.
The ensemble cast together have reached for their characters and grabbed them with both hands over the three-month rehearsal process, developing spooky spirits and witches, kindly Kings, ghosts and apparitions, Lords, Ladies, servants and soldiers. Throw in the odd murderer who has been cast completely against type, a couple of doctors, a porter, a loving wife and son with a tragic demise and the scene is set for an amazing production.
Situated within Sam's signature design style of an all-black set, with stunning costumes and beautiful lighting by Martyn Lloyd, adding in atmospheric soundscapes and deeply engaging performances this is a BTP production not to be missed with one of the best casts we have had the pleasure to work with.
With only eight performances, one of which is already sold out, and limited seating, don't leave buying your tickets until the last moment. Be one of the lucky few who will get to immerse themselves in the beauty of Shakespeare's words, a story of tragic proportions, with some of the most famous lines in the English language, where Games of Thrones meets Outlander, and where our characters take you to a land of darkness, treachery and betrayal that will leave you breathless.
Matinees are one Saturday 27 July and Saturday 3 August (Sunday 28 July SOLD OUT). Evening performances Friday 26 July, Saturday 27 July, Thursday 1 August. Friday 2 August and Saturday 3 August.
Tickets are available now, online, at www.trybooking.com/501184 or for more information go to www.baytheatreplayers.org.au
Ticket prices: Adults $25.50; Concession $23.50; Group of 20 or more $22.50 (all prices include on-line booking fees).
PLEASE NOTE: This production is recommended for 15+ years of age. Strobe lighting and smoke effects are used in this production.
If you have any concerns about booking online please phone 4472 1619
