One might be instantly skeptical about a one-man Macbeth show, but Choin Theatre Company redefined Macbeth in which the story is optimally told by only one person.
Macbeth is the exciting retelling of… well… Macbeth, performed in C Venues C South and directed by Park Cheong-euy. The original beloved Shakespeare story has a full cast featuring an adventure with prophecies, murder, and drama. It is certainly a challenge to convey its story-line though one actor and a minimal set; however, the Chopin Theater Company expressed the turmoil of Macbeth perfectly.
The show opens with a barren stage except for four blue boxes, as the star, Minhyung Hwang, pantomimes riding a horse in the humble set. But it is evident that there is no need for any extraordinary backdrop. The actor’s expressions are so exaggerated and large that he brilliantly fills the empty space with an imaginary world. He incorporates the arts of miming, physical theatre, comedy, dance, and many more to express the emotions of Macbeth.
Minhyung Hwang’s energy was massive- he instantly took up the entire room with his physicality and passion. Macbeth’s journey was executed clearly and stayed true to the original story, as he murders his way to his ultimate demise; while at the same time being modern and unexpected, as he uses a foam sword as a machine gun.
Lady Macbeth, played by a finger puppet, was one of the highlights of the show. True to the original story, this puppet was the powerful woman and mastermind behind many of Macbeth’s killings - but also in this story, she barely spoke a single world. She did not need to, as Minhyung Hwang using only one hand conveyed her full glory through just a series of simple nods and comedic sound effects.
Minhyung Hwang’s contagious energy and expressions well made up for the fact that he was the only one on stage. And if there was one word to describe the show, it would be tree-mendous!