shkspr prjct

I went to see shkspr prjct last night, presented by Catalyst Theater Company at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop. Using methods developed by Jerzy Grotowski, Kathleen Akerley has staged an adaptation of Macbeth that focuses on an almost mechanical movement, and repetition of the text.

I had two reactions to the production. As a visual artist, the images produced were stunning, sometimes even breathtaking. As someone who interprets dramatic text, I found the treatment a little against my grain. I should pause here to explain that I am a strict formalist when it comes to theatre. I believe theatre is about the playwright, and our jobs as actors, directors, and designers is to bring to life the world the author has written.

It is not that I disliked the production. Indeed, there were many aspects I felt illuminated the text in new and fascinating ways. In the repetition of the text, we are frequently brought backwards to revisit events we have already seen. The most engaging of these was towards the end, as Macbeth is facing the downfall of his reign. We are shown the murder of Duncan, as Macbeth repeats over and over "We will proceed no further in this business." This moment reflected both the emotional conflict Macbeth faces at the time of the murder, and the despair he feels at his final undoing, better than any traditionally staged production I have ever seen.

The movement also provides a mechanical quality that suggests the ever turning machinery of fate. I do wonder if this idea could have been better built upon and focused. Perhaps that is not the point, however.

I have to give a shout out to the lighting design, done by Jason Cowperthwaite. It is some of the most gorgeous work I have seen all season.

I strongly reccommend the show, especially if you saw The Shakespeare Theatre's production in the fall. The Catalyst production certainly offers an interesting counterpoint.

The show plays through June 11. Tickets are $30.