Extended reading
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Macbeth, staged by Abhinaya Taranga, tried new techniques, but wasn't entirely successful
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Macbeth Didn’t rise to expectations
The house stands divided as far as Shakespearean drama is concerned: while some think that these are plays meant to be read, some believe that they are meant to be brought to stage. However, his plays continue to be staged, effectively across the globe, in several languages. Sometimes they are seasoned with a local flavour or reinterpreted to situate the play in a particular context.
The best instance is Akira Kurosawa's movie based on Macbeth - "The Throne of Blood", where one can recognise the use of Japanese folk elements.
Abinayataranga recently staged Ramachandra Deva's Kannada translation of "Macbeth", as part of the Nataka Bengaluru theatre festival 2009. The 15-day festival, at Ravindra Kalakshetra was witness to the several productions by amateur theatre troupes.
Ramachandra Deva in a note about the play calls it a political play, and equates Macbeth with the great dictators - Hitler, Mussolini or Stalin, and the agony as something that has resonances in any military regime. Projecting certain visuals in the backdrop, the play attempted to achieve this connection, but failed to establish a relationship. It not help the play much.
The play, directed by Joseph, was rather dull and failed to gain pace throughout. There was nothing remarkable about the acting either, but for the one actor who donned the role of Macbeth in the post Duncan murder scene.
One who played the role of Macbeth in the pre-Duncan murder scene was pathetic, with regard to his body language, expression and dialogue delivery. The acting of S.V. Sushma, as Lady Macbeth was powerful, no denying it. Unfortunately, the role failed to fit her and looked awkward.
The chorus lacked force and rhythm. Also, the technique of employing the ego and alter ego of Macbeth, on the stage, did not add to the effect of the play in any significant way. Lighting by Jagga ruined the play further and music rendered by M.D. Pallavi and Arun Kumar was average.
Somehow, one could not feel the magic of Shakespeare in the play. The production which was deficient in several aspects could not engross the audience.
BHUMIKA RAJAN
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