Words: Elodie Marriott
Image: K Darius Photography

4 stars 

Is this a delightful hybrid of Mean Girls and Macbeth which I see before me? 

Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence is a worthy addition to the canon of modern Shakespeare adaptations. Instead of vying for the crown, this retelling follows wing defender Mac, who believes the netball captaincy belongs to her and will do anything to get it. This shift from an ambitious general to sporty adolescent is a perfect fit, perhaps due to the fact that teenage girls are exposed to The-Bard-level tragedy and betrayal on the daily. 

Knowledge of Shakespeare’s shortest tragedy isn’t necessary to enjoy LMPWD, however being caught off guard with silly sport terms inserted into classic monologues is a lot of fun. The three witches are transformed into the pop group ‘Dagger Divas’, while the shrieking owl prophesying death and downfall is turned into their rival’s team name. 

This creative musical interpretation retains all the tension of the original while introducing netball-themed ear worms into the narrative. The harmonies and high notes in “Here If You Need” are a highlight of the show, and vocally there’s not a single weak link. 

To see catty scheming and desperate grabs for power juxtaposed with a hot pink set and upbeat choreography, don’t miss Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence. 

Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence
Assembly George Square Studios
11.30, 16.15
20 – 25 Aug