EDINBURGH 2010: BWW Reviews: JUST MACBETH! (Assembly @ George Street)

Produced by Australian theatre company, Bell Shakespeare, and directed by Wayne Harrison (producer of Tap Dogs), Just Macbeth! is a fantastically funny introduction to Shakespeare for a younger audience.

That doesn't mean it is just for a younger audience though. There is plenty of slapstick humour and some adult references which (hopefully) go over the younger ones' heads.

From the book by acclaimed Australian children's writer, Andy Griffiths, Just Macbeth! features witches, spells, curses, murder, hauntings and guilt. Thankfully on the other hand, it also features a garden gnome, lots of marshmallows, farts, bums, a rendition of the Pussycat Dolls' "Don't Cha" and guest appearances by Daleks and Yoda (well…kind of).  There were laughs-a-plenty from both adults and kids alike throughout the 90 minute show and you definitely learn a bit more about Shakespeare in the process. The main cast of Patrick Brammall (Andy), Pippa Grandison (Lisa) and John Leary (Danny) are extremely amusing and the audience soon forgets that they are actors over 30 playing 12 year-old school children. A fun show for all the family and highly recommended, however, be warned, you may get wet.