Review: Macbeth

Bard on the Beach’s production of Macbeth is an undeniably chilling experience. Driven by compelling acting, sharp pacing, and striking staging, it stays captivating from start to finish! Directed by acclaimed Canadian director and dramaturg Stephen Drover, the show runs until September 18th at the BMO Mainstage at Vanier Park.

Macbeth explores unchecked ambition diminishing morality. Munish Sharma’s portrayal of Macbeth’s descent from a loyal hero to a paranoid tyrant was riveting. His rage, rooted in tragic vulnerability, made his violent outbursts unpredictable. Tess Degenstein confidently commanded the stage as Lady Macbeth, delivering monologues filled with emotion that combined ambition and vulnerability, mesmerizing the audience.

The dark-themed play took a comical turn shortly after the murder of King Duncan, once the Porter, played by Steffanie Davis, appeared on stage to deliver the iconic drunken gatekeeper of hell monologue. Her performance provided a welcome release of tension in the audience. In addition, her comedic timing and confident stage presence were spot-on!

Amir Ofek’s striking multi-level set design effectively creates two distinct, atmospheric worlds. The eerie lower level resembles an abandoned hospital, featuring institutional green tiles, small round bulbs mounted evenly along the upper walls, and seven brown metal chairs lined against the wall. A metallic utility sink is built into the right-hand section. To me, the sink symbolizes the play’s central themes of cleansing and unwashed guilt. Above, an elevated walkway bordered by a metal railing and patches of tall ornamental grass stages the production’s frequent battle scenes.

BMO Mainstage’s layout featured a thrust stage design, where the floor extends directly out into the centre of the audience. Its three-sided seating creates an intimate and communal vibe that feels more like a shared live event. Its spaciousness made it easier for the cast to move around smoothly.

Jonathan Hawley Purvis’s thrilling fight choreography transformed the stage into a furious battlefield, utilizing balanced movements, clean recoveries, and deeply convincing pain reactions to maintain relentless tension.

The play’s pacing truly stood out. Stephen Drover uses a sharp, deliberate pace. This allows the cast to deliver their lines with intense, gripping focus. The actors linger on Shakespeare’s darkest lines, letting the chilling depth of their ambition really resonate with the audience.

Ultimately, this production proves that Shakespeare’s dark and violent tragedy remains as unsettling and relevant today as ever. If you enjoy suspenseful, action-packed theatre, this is an absolute must-see!

Rating: 5/5

Date watched: July 29th, 2026

Location: BMO Mainstage at Vanier Park, Vancouver BC