Murphys Creek Theatre's "Macbeth" is a Sharp Effort

Murphys Creek Theatre has brought Shakespeare in the Park to the Motherlode.

Macbeth is performed in a beautiful outdoor setting at Stevenot Winery in Murphys. The show begins in daylight with a performance of dancing by local children. The "Green Show" music was composed by the young and talented Tyler Emerson of Twain Harte.

As dusk falls and the show begins, it is as if director Jeff McDonald had planned nightfall to accompany Macbeth's decent into the depths of murderous madness. If you are not familiar with the story, the program comes with a synopsis.

Vince Tycer is marvelously evil in the title role. Equity artist Deborah Taylor plays Lady Macbeth, giving her usual glowing performance. Locals may have seen her in the Columbia Actors Repertory productions of "Dangerous Liaisons" and "Dancing at Lughnasa."

Other fine and familiar actors included Stephen Daly, Sheila Doyle, Sarah Grimes, Mark Leyva, Eva Oliver and Eric Owens. Graham Scott Green was able to play dual roles in the show even while directing "Twelfth Night," which opens tonight at Stevenot and continues in repertory with "Macbeth."

Those familiar with Shakespeare know the twists of his plots well but this show had other surprises in store. As writ-ten by Shakespeare, the character Malcolm, heir to the throne, is the eldest son. In this production Malcolm is the eldest daughter.

MCT is an equal opportunity employer casting Debra Baskin as the rightful queen Malcolm. Baskin's performance is wonderful, but the audience might question whether Shakespeare himself had intended a woman in the role.

But to those who like Shakespeare could not help but appreciate the fine choreography of the many sword fights. Although the lighting wasn't dramatic the scenes were adequately lit, which was no small feat considering the company's limited equipment.

Most of the parts were well cast and Shakespeare's words seemed to roll almost effortlessly from their tongues. Some of the actors could have been stronger and faltered with the language a bit on opening night.

Playgoers should come prepared for this one. Bring your own chairs or blanket to sit on, and don't forget bug repellent and something warm to put on after dark. Do try to come early for the "Green Show."