Macbett, preformed by the John Abbot theatre department, is a new age spin on the Shakespearian tale that deals with betrayal, greed and ambition, Macbeth. This parody takes a humorous, though at times, down right ridiculous spin on Macbeth that leaves the audience in stitches. Although the differences from play to paperback are extremely evident, they don't deter from the brilliance of the fabulously acted, well-constructed and performed masterpiece by Eugene Ionesco.

To begin, the setting, lighting and sound were tremendously well done for the CEGEP level. At the critical and vital parts of the play, the lighting would reflect the moods perfectly. A warm auburn and fuchsia tint would outline the characters during their deep contemplation, as a hazy lime and cyan would flash blindingly during the mystical and supernatural moments. The lighting brought out the raw beauty of simplicity in this play. In addition, the backdrop of 'Ground Zero' was a fantastic setting for the bitter wars based solely on power corruption and hate. Destruction was continually surrounding the characters, yet they seemed perfectly at ease with that fact. As well, the barbaric sounds of bombs exploding, machine guns firing and soaring airplanes echoed in the gigantic room, vanquishing any silence that might of existed. The sound spiced up the parody, adding a distinct twentieth century twist to the original medieval setting.

Also, the acting in Macbett, was phenomenal, tantamount to that of the actors that perform on Broadway. Young actors Mike Hughes, Gabriel Bran Lopez and Kristy Kaidas stole the play. Each actor brought something distinctive and added their own unique twist to their character roles, never missing a beat or stumbling over a line. The dynamic and charismatic Lady Duncan, (although not written about in Shakespeare's Macbeth) was played by actress Kristy Kaidas. Her fierce voice and graceful movements breathed life into the leading female role. Furthermore, senior Mike Hughes brilliantly acted the leading role of Macbett. His portrayal of the noble warrior turned vengeful murderer literally wowed the audience, hypnotizing the crowd. Witty when he had to be and smug, crazy and ruthless just about every other time, Mike Hughes definitely proved he could handle the overpowering role. Yet, without a doubt, the show rested upon the slender shoulders of the hilarious Gabriel Bran Lopez. As soon as this vibrant youth stepped onto the stage, posing as a lemonade vendor, the audience was enchanted. His roles, although minor, were used as the comic relief in Macbett. With his dashing good looks, musical voice and natural flare, Gabriel Bran Lopez will be sure to hit it big.

In deed, Macbett was truly a fantastic play. The acting alone was enough to captivate the audience, leaving them in awe. The meticulously organized sound, lighting effects and setting only added to the wonderful and utterly hilarious parody. Sink or swim the results are in. Macbett is a hit.

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