Reclaimed Performing Arts Company puts its own unique spin on an evocative and effective “Macbeth” as the troupe presents its second fully produced Shakespeare play Feb. 6 to 7 at the Charles A. Brown Ice House in Bethlehem.
Raven Whitefawn is satisfying and compelling as Macbeth, as they portray the character’s dark descent into evil. Whitefawn’s expressive face aptly conveys Macbeth’s mercurial emotion as he gives in to his naked ambition, committing increasingly horrifying acts, and dealing with the consequences of his actions.
Alyssa Rismiller is wickedly memorable as the conniving Lady Macbeth, who manipulatively pushes her husband to follow his baser instincts and then is driven to madness by guilt.
As the unfortunate king Duncan, Anthony Cornatzer is enjoyably blustery though blind to Macbeth’s turn towards darkness.
Julisa Trinidad, Kristen Brown and Mia Zappacosta are evilly entertaining and put a lot of wicked energy into their portrayal of the three witches prancing around the stage as they spur Macbeth on with their cackling prophecies.
Emily M. Shaffer is a solid and upright Banquo, and woefully trusting as the doomed Lady McDuff.
Lars Philipps gives a strong turn as the son of Macduff.
As Malcolm, Sam Philipps is appropriately serious and solemn.
The cast, which also includes Emily Badmanff, Nic Penn and Jaeden Reppert, plays multiple roles to flesh out the tragedy.
The simple, but effective, set design by Sam Philipps, features a row of columns that are broken, suggesting the shattering of the Macbeths’ minds.
Director Carter Reichard keeps the action moving briskly and uses the entire space including the stairs and second floor of the Ice House to good use.
The show was stripped down, but well done, and the cast delivered a powerful interpretation of Shakespeare’s dark tragedy.
For information on Reclaimed Performing Arts Company, go to www.reclaimedpac.org/.