On 31st October, Prospero Theatre School performed an Artaud-inspired production of Macbeth at the Lantern Theatre in Brighton. This drama group, which I have been part of for 5 years, is based in Caterham and prides itself on ‘exceptional art that speaks with the voice of an inclusive society.’ The production previously enjoyed high praise at the 62nd Woking Drama Festival on 15th October. It was awarded the best use of costume and an impressive set of nominations: best young actor, best young actress, best director and two nominations in the adjudicator’s award for the choral work of the witches and the ensemble work of the whole company. So it was with high hopes that the company could delight audiences again in Brighton, with what they describe as a ‘powerful and haunting adaptation’ of Macbeth.

 

With only 7 actors (including myself), we used the intimate stage of The Lantern Theatre to our advantage. We arrived at 4.15pm for a chance to act out particular scenes in the space, adapt sections to allow for quick costume changes, and run through the lighting states to ensure we were at the correct positions. After this we got into costume and set our props, before warming up. Our last minute checks included speaking into the mics, delivering lines for sound levels and then an important energy circle exercise to fill us with confidence and excitement, whilst remembering the essential teamwork needed for a show.

 

The show appeared to satisfy and enthrall the audience as we received a loud applause during the bows and some kind compliments afterwards. Hopefully our final performance on the 5th November in Caterham will be just as successful and a good finish for all the hard work the cast, directors and creatives have put into this show!