David Tennant and Cush Jumbo’s Macbeth director reveals what it’s like working with them

As a seasoned theatre-goer with a penchant for Shakespearean adaptations and a soft spot for David Tennant, I can hardly contain my excitement for this latest rendition of Macbeth, starring none other than Tennant himself alongside the brilliant Cush Jumbo. Having witnessed their enchanting performance at the Donmar Warehouse last year, I’m eager to see if they can recreate that magic on a larger stage.

David Tennant and Cush Jumbo are set to return to the stage in October with their mesmerizing (and grisly) take on Macbeth. This newest rendition is making its way to the Harold Pinter Theatre, having previously sold out at the Donmar Warehouse last year. The question remains: will they be able to rekindle the same enchantment as the initial performance?

They continually experimented with various ideas, each one turning out well. However, the challenge lies in choosing just one among so many outstanding choices!

In a specific instance, the award-winning director (who received an Olivier Award for his rendition of Life of Pi) focused keenly on actress Cush Jumbo.

Just like I do, Cush found himself contemplating Lady Macbeth from the perspective of a woman who has experienced the loss of a child, and delving into discussions about motherhood and mental well-being,” he explained.

We combined our personal journeys into parenthood, my transition into fatherhood and Cush’s into motherhood, along with the contemporary hurdles, societal pressures, and intricate aspects of parenting in today’s world.

In the play, there’s a scene when Lady Macbeth, in a poignant instant, believes her child is no longer present and reaches out to grasp his hand. The first time actress Cush portrayed this emotional scene was incredibly touching and memorable.

David Tennant and Cush Jumbo’s Macbeth director reveals what it’s like working with them

Webster went on to discuss Tennant and the “knack” he has for Shakespeare.

He’s an individual who can bring Shakespeare’s work to life with grandeur and vivacity, yet maintain its authenticity so that it doesn’t feel like a relic from a museum. Instead, it seems as if a contemporary person is speaking the lines in today’s world. The ability to make such performances seem fresh and modern is truly remarkable.

He joked, “To be honest, David can manage just fine on his own. He’s got this handled! Not only is he an incredible person, but he also co-founded the company alongside Cush, showing both grace, humor, dedication, and all the positive qualities.

In regard to our professional ties, it’s worth noting that Webster is taking charge for the forthcoming National Theatre presentation of The Importance of Being Earnest, featuring Ncuti Gatwa in the lead role.

The upcoming performance represents Webster’s first time on the National Theatre stage, with notable actors like Hugh Skinner from “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” and Sharon D Clarke known for her role in “Doctor Who,” also taking part.

When discussing this frankly epic cast, he said: “We literally made lists of who we thought the best actors were for the main parts, and we’ve got them! It was really was as simple as that.”

As we embark on our rehearsals, he mentioned enthusiastically: “I hope what you’ll witness is some of the UK’s finest actors being quick-witted, clever, flirtatious, inventive, and simply aiming to provide an enjoyable experience for the audience. This production promises a robust sense of humor, good comedy, and I am eagerly anticipating it.

Are there still tickets left for David Tennant’s Macbeth?

Only just. A new spell of tickets went live last week, with the going price of £250.

At present, ticket supply is quite limited, so do grab them for yourself before they run out.

Here’s another way you could phrase that question: “What are some top Shakespeare plays currently showing, and which West End production has had the longest run?

2024-09-23 12:33

Are there still tickets left for David Tennant’s Macbeth?

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