If you’re anywhere near Chula Vista and have a soft spot for Shakespeare (but not too soft), Southwestern College is putting on Macbeth, and tickets are here: https://vivenu.com/event/macbeth-zui2hx.
Most of the cast are students, with a professor or two thrown in for good measure. They don’t exactly scream “Scottish thane”—and with many roles played by women, but the real stretch is in the physicality. You’ll see what I mean.
Costumes lean toward “modernish,” and the set is my favorite kind: mostly nonexistent. No castle turrets, no forest glades—just the words and the players. Wait until you see Birnam Wood.
Now, is the acting professional? Not quite. But I could understand nearly every word, which is usually the most important thing to me.
If you love Shakespeare but don’t need it to be perfect, you’ll probably enjoy yourself. If you don’t know the play, you might get a little lost—but you’ll still have a good time.
Their previous production of Hamlet was so strong I felt fine saying, “Don’t miss it.” With this Macbeth, I have to say: see it if you’re nearby, don’t have any conflicting priorities, and are okay suspending a little disbelief. Having said all that, you can expect to be pleased but not thrilled.
—Our reviewer Bill Glaser is a long-time member of the Society.
—Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this review are those of Mr. Glaser and do not reflect the official position of the San Diego Shakespeare Society.