Review: Macbeth On Inchcolm Island, Summerhall, Summerhall

RICHARD Demarco returns to the island on which he has staged Macbeth twice before – in 1988 and 1989 – with a new generation of actors. ***

Directed by Siobhan Cannon-Brownlie, this production unites Scotland’s scenery with Shakespeare’s classic tale of ambition, 
murder and madness.

A re-staging of the student production in St Andrew’s Castle earlier this year, Macbeth on Incholm Island is a haunting and authentic production, thanks to the use of the ruins of Inchcolm Abbey and the surrounding areas.

Using the Bard’s original text and utilising the island to its full potential, some scenes are superbly realised, including the banquet scene where the appearance of Banquo’s ghost unsettles Macbeth and the audience is equal measure.

But while this performance looks and sounds good, some moments of overacting, coupled with the time it takes for the audience to manoeuvre around the building and grounds on the island, tests the patience of the viewer.

That said, however, Cannon-Brownlie’s production is an unforgettable piece of drama, performed by some very promising and passionate young professionals.

n Ends Sunday