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Kent-Trumbull Theater An intense, dark and ferocious ‘Macbeth’
By ERIC McCREA
WARREN
Superstition and conspiracy collide when Kent-Trumbull Theater brings “Macbeth” to life.
Considered one of Shakespeare’s darkest tragedies, we begin freshly after a battle. The soldiers of King Duncan (Ron Wolford) are victorious, and two of his generals encounter a triad of witches who bestow prophecies.
Banquo, played by Herb Everman, is told he shall father a long line of kings. Macbeth, played by Peter Byrne, is told that he himself shall be King of Scotland. When Lady Macbeth (Liz Conrad) learns of this fortune, she becomes a conspirator with her husband, and plots to kill Duncan in order to seize the throne.
Regret dissolves her into lunacy as paranoia drives Macbeth to tyranny. After returning to the dark arts for comfort, he is newly emboldened and lashes out at those who threaten his legacy, but a line is crossed, leading to the aforementioned darkness and tragedy.
Byrne strikes an intimidating Macbeth. He attacks the role with the ferocity of a cornered beast. He’s impossible to ignore when he’s on stage, pulling the audience with him during his descent into madness.
His intensity is magnified when paired with Conrad. The theatrical electricity between them is a rare and amazing find.
On her own, Conrad is impeccable. Her performance is transporting. You’re no longer seeing a play, but you’re in a castle, watching a queen riddled with guilt, petrified for her soul.
Everman is a stoic and warm Banquo, and his lines are delivered as if wrapped in velvet. He has a subtle nuance, and a noticeable familiarity with the word of the Bard.
In the role of the rightful, but absent, heir to the throne, Dylan White delivers a clean Malcolm. His presentation is crisp, and he projects a natural air of nobility.
Credit is due to Edward Jordan and his proficient delivery of the Porter’s monologue.
In the role of Macduff, the ultimate dispatcher of the usurper, Craig Conrad brings a strong performance. He shows the turmoil of a grieving and vengeful father faultlessly.
As Lady Macduff, Susan Montecalvo shines briefly, and also impresses as part of the Hecate trio along with Joanna Rose and Linda Kay Newill.
Keeping in the theme of three, the triad of witches were an enhancement to the show, often acting as the vehicle of director Tom Engstrom’s personal take on the staging. Bold lighting mixed with macabre visual effects and chilling sound cues to create a truly cohesive realization of Engstrom’s vision.
A very functional set made for smooth scene transitions, without pulling focus from the performances.
Shakespeare’s work can be a step outside the norm for many actors, and some in the cast could not hide their inexperience, but they should be proud for surviving this theatrical rite of passage.
“Macbeth” runs Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. The Kent-Trumbull Theater is on the campus at 4314 Mahoning Ave. For reservations, call 330-675-8887.