Reviews for Macbeth: February 2025

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The Nottingham Shakespeare Company’s free production of ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ was a joy to behold, showcasing the talent that often graces Nottingham theatre. With good acting and the delivery of lucid lines, this Nottingham Shakespeare Company production provided an experience that exceeded my expectations. It was a performance that fully engaged and entertained, reminiscent of the quality seen in some Macbeth reviews. 

Don John, played by Bronwyn K Crooks, delivered a brilliant display of bad-tempered duplicity that could easily fit into any episode of Succession. Michelle-Louise Wright, who also directed, portrayed Don Pedro and skillfully guided us through the narrative. Christopher Collins presented a commanding Benedick, while the standout performer in my opinion was Jonathan Mansfield as Borachio—funny, engaging, and convincingly mischievous as a drunk. Grace Deavall was enticing as Hero, and Alistair Fiori – Mcphee, also the assistant director, shone when portraying Claudio, particularly in his angrier moments. 

Overall, it was a funny and touching production that left afternoon walkers surprised and delighted as they stumbled upon the play and chose to stay. This free and joyful production of Shakespeare felt almost subversive. Not only that, but it was truly good. This is a company that deserves support, especially when considering the positive feedback in various Shakespeare reviews.

This production is an amusing and energetic experience, reminiscent of the strong impressions found in Macbeth reviews. Bronwyn K Crooks is fiercely haughty as the dangerous and manipulative Don John, showcasing her talent in Nottingham theatre. Wright directs this production with great creative verve and fluidity, establishing a fair degree of direct connection with the audience members who are more than willing to engage. We love it. Benedick (Christopher Collins) and Beatrice (Emma Carlton) are superbly portrayed, and the enjoyment comes from the actors' natural and eloquent performances, highlighting their playful chemistry. The show offers a pleasant mix of naturalism, serious drama, and comic nonsense, akin to the themes explored in Shakespeare reviews. Alistair Fiori-McPhee takes us on his sweet and sympathetic journey as the lovelorn Claudio, while Grace Deavall embodies grace itself as the lovable Hero. The night-watch trio, featuring Kasia Cichocka, Emma Carlton, and Bronwyn K. Crooks, delivers hilarious moments that make for a very entertaining evening. Richard Young adds the requisite seriousness to the piece as the older Leonato.

When you have a cast so in tune with the great man's plays, like those seen in the Nottingham theatre, you just can't go wrong where entertainment value is concerned. They break down barriers of snobbery. A stellar cast, familiar with extracting every drop of comedy from the script and then magnifying it, makes for an exceptional performance. Every time I see anything by the NSC, I know that the direction will be as sharp as the acting and as pacy and fresh, as echoed in many Macbeth reviews. The play is in the hands of people who love what they do and understand the Bard, allowing them to deliver an entertaining production that is sure to impress. You will not be disappointed, believe me.