New International Encounter (NIE) is a renowned global theatre company that has been captivating audiences for over two decades with a striking mix of physical theatre, live music, and storytelling. Their mission is to present ‘playful stories that connect us all,’ concentrating on the creation of innovative theatrical productions and interactive projects aimed at young audiences. As a charitable organization, they work with children who encounter challenges in accessing creative and cultural opportunities.
Through their ‘Shakespeare in a Suitcase’ project, NIE distills classic stories into performances lasting under an hour, performed by a trio of actor/musicians utilizing the contents of a single suitcase. Their adaptation of Macbeth exemplifies this method, effectively capturing the essential elements of Shakespeare’s classic narrative of ambition, betrayal, revenge, and fate in a way that’s easily comprehensible for younger viewers.
The outstanding cast (Valentina Ceschi, Greg Hall, and Abayomi Oniyide), along with enthusiastic audience engagement, brings Macbeth’s story to life through a fusion of Shakespearean dialogue and contemporary references. The performers frequently involve the audience by asking questions about how Macbeth should handle the temptations of power and wealth, questioning whether his intense ambition should outweigh his moral values. Throughout the performance, brief recaps help clarify the plot and the intricacies of the character relationships, which can be challenging for younger audiences. Targeted mainly at children aged 8 and older, the show proved entertaining to my two daughters, aged seven and five, who enjoyed the interactive elements despite being a bit younger than the recommended age.
The performance is enhanced by an original score, live music, and sound effects that contribute to the overall experience. Under Michael Judge’s direction, the cast weaves a rich tapestry of emotions, incorporating elements of comedy, tragedy, swift action, and at times, intense moments of drama.
Even with a minimalist set and a limited selection of props (the clever use of a silk sheet stands out), this production serves as an excellent entry point to Shakespeare for young audiences while also highlighting the enduring themes present in the original work for those already familiar with it.
Image Source: Polka Theater @ YouTube