A wing defence’s conniving quest for captaincy leads to mischief and downfall. Who will win? Well, it won’t come as too much of a surprise for those familiar with the Shakespearean drama, but you’ll cheer along with the game hoping for some of those courtside orange slices at the end.
It takes a unique eye and capable hand to write and stage a fresh approach to Shakespeare that holds a resemblance to the original material while breaking new ground. Independent theatre company CRASH, hailing from Boorloo (Perth, WA), has conquered the challenge with a distinctly Australian take that capitalises on the current attention to women’s sport and fans the flame reigniting the dance-pop genre. What better sport than our country’s biggest female teams leading on the world stage (or at least the Commonwealth)? And what could be more ruthless than a Year 11 girls' team?
The quick-thinking, action-packed showcase of female athleticism in netball lends itself to a fast-paced, contemporary musical where women’s power underpins the epic vocal ability and dance routines of the ensemble. The supporting synth soundtrack by PROJECT BEXX aids in the amped atmosphere of the show. The team chant becomes a catchy lyric stuck in your brain like strapping tape to a player’s painful shoulder. The costuming is striking with hot pink netball uniforms and boxing robes for the ‘The Dagger Divas’ embellished with fluff and fringe.
A sharp script with some key lines from the original work and sport gags thrown in makes for belly laughs. For those less familiar with Macbeth’s tale or even netball, the show works well on its own, though these elements are enhanced with some knowledge of either or both. The cast is stellar as teenagers both upholding and destroying sportsmanship. An overzealous Coach Duncan (Courtney McManus) relives her prime playing days with such seriousness it makes for great comedy. Like any good sports team, it’s a tight ensemble where everyone is a star player but they work best together.
With a sold-out season at the Adelaide Fringe and a Best in Theatre Weekly Award, the one-hour show certainly leaves you wanting more. I hope this show will continue to grow akin to the global musical phenomenon SIX - another colourful, modern musical retelling with its roots in a Fringe Festival. Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence continues its national tour to Joondalup Festival (Perth) so locals can recommend it to friends or listen to the original cast recording on Spotify. At least you can grow out your nails in the meantime.