Performance dates: Aug 14-17, 21-22, 28-29

The performer begins by telling us that this story will be ‘bloody, violent and miserable’ and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. However, it is also a fantastic hour, spent journeying through an age-appropriate retelling of Macbeth. This is a performance filled with imagination and humour, which reminds us of just what theatre is supposed to be – thrilling, engaging and magical.

There are numerous excellent elements in this performance. Firstly, it is a solo performance. Yet, through the use of only a few simple props, such as scarves and plastic glasses, one performer successfully portrayed an entire cast. In addition to the props, he also used physicality and voice very effectively to create visibly different characters. Key characteristics (such as the “Hi…” of Banquo) were repeated and maintained throughout the show, providing a firm reference point for the audience, resulting in easily identifiable characters and a narrative that was easy to follow and understand.

The simplicity of the set (a simple wooden stool) and the use of only a select few props really stood out. The map turned crown was particularly noteworthy, drawing “wows” from younger audience members and really captivating the audience’s imagination early on in the show. The galloping horse was another audience favourite, created only with simple clapping, yet skilfully inviting the audience to become complicit in the imagining of said horse.

The lighting and music also deserve acknowledgement. Simple changes of light immediately transformed the stage, transporting audiences to different locations. The whisperings at the start of the performance, as we awaited the arrival of the performer, were wonderfully atmospheric and served to build tension and created a buzz of excitement in the theatre. A particularly memorable moment was Macduff’s knocking at the gate. The sound effects were brilliantly timed with the performers knocking. Again, this moment drew awe from young audience members, helping to bring to life the very magic of theatre.

Of course, as the performer reminded us, Macbeth is a tragedy. Yet, despite this, Is This A Dagger? is a performance filled with humour, which ensured that the show remained light and age appropriate. Similarly, the use of original Shakespearean text was beautifully woven with modern day language, making the show accessible to the whole audience. It’s a particularly good show to watch for anyone wishing to introduce children to the work of Shakespeare.

Andy Cannon gave a brilliant performance. He was engaging to watch and had great ease when interacting with the audience. The direct audience address at the start and end of the show worked particularly well to frame the ‘story of Macbeth’. There was even some educational content thrown in at the end, as we were told about the real Macbeth and left to ponder a few questions once we left.

The show is advertised as being suitable for 8-year-olds and older and it’s certainly worth heeding this advice. Although brilliantly told, it was indeed at times at bit bloody; it’s Macbeth after all. Yet the violence was all done brilliantly through the use of props, sound effects and imagination. The result is a performance which is captivating and thrilling for adults and children alike.

Running at just one hour, the show is an ideal length for the target audience. It’s well paced throughout and young audience members remained visibly engaged throughout. One particularly effective technique was the audience participation in the final quarter of the performance, which helped to re-engage those younger members of the audience who had perhaps become a little restless. The use of whole audience participation further encouraged everyone present to actually participate, thereby preventing audiences from being too shy or self-conscious to participate in the fun.

Overall, this is a show well worth watching. In particular, it’s a good choice for any families with older children and teenagers, as there is plenty to keep all ages entertained throughout. It has just the perfect balance of humour and tragedy and is wonderfully delivered by a skilled performer.

Review by Diana Monteiro Toombs