Macbeth Finally Plays in Vietnam

With the imagery of the witches running through the whole production, great soundtrack-style music and six actors doubling up in numerous roles to make up the full cast of the play, Macbeth's opening night at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House on Wednesday Oct. 26 proved to be everything that was expected and more.

The work of the UK-based TNT Theatre Company, the acting was virtually impeccable and the physicality of the show was constantly engaging and at times breathtaking. And yet, the play was faithful to its original script. All the key soliloquies and scenes were acted out to their full

, but with nice touches to make what is often a difficult theatre form more accessible to both a native English speaking and non-native English speaking audience. This was a true Shakespeare.

The only negative was the size of the audience. So, if you want Vietnam to move in the direction of Singapore, Malaysia or Hong Kong, with English language theatrical productions and musicals regularly passing through, then come out and support this production. Bums on seats means more productions in the future, more theatre and over time, more all-round English language entertainment.

The show continues at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House on Oct. 27, 28 and 29 (8pm start). And at the Hanoi Opera House, the play shows on Oct. 31, Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 (8pm start). Tickets are available at the box office of either theatre or by calling the Vietnam Performing Arts Theatre on 0904 138495. Prices start at VND400,000 per person.

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Republished with the kind permission of The Word HCMC

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