Macbeth at Blackpool Grand

Kristy Stott, Theatre Editor

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Macbeth

17-18 April 2018

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Nicole Guarino
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New adaptations of Macbeth pop up every few months – after all, it is one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays. However, this striking new adaptation by the Mark Bruce Company is highly unique in that it decodes Shakespeare’s text into a compelling physical language. Atmospheric, muscular and sensual, a cast of just nine dancers move to a diverse musical score which features Arvo Part, Schubert and Sonic Youth.

Provoked by a gaggle of witches, Macbeth and his wife, Lady Macbeth let nothing come between them and their ambition – slaughtering anybody who stands in their way, they are on a one-way street to madness and self-destruction, trapped in a nightmare that they cannot control.

The Mark Bruce Company formed back in 1991 and has garnered a string of impressive accolades including the Sky Arts South Bank Award for Dance and the award for Best Independent Company. Jonathan Goddard who takes on the role of Macbeth has previously won the National Dance Award for Best Male Dancer when he danced the role of Dracula in the company’s 2013 production.

The historic Blackpool Grand provides the perfect setting for this ethereal show – balancing elegance, decadence, and genuine chill. And the lack of any dialogue forges a complete reliance on the physicality of the dancers and their facial expressions.

Drama, dance and film audiences will be drawn to The Mark Bruce Company’s innovative adaptation of Macbeth. Playing out in a supernatural and corrupt world laced with jealousy, ambition and tragedy, this production is certainly a gripping must-see for dance lovers and fans of Shakespeare’s Scottish play.

Where to go near Macbeth at Blackpool Grand

Dirty Blonde's
Blackpool
Restaurant
Dirty Blonde’s

Dirty Blonde’s is a dive bar and pizza joint that feels more downtown New York than British seaside town. Go for the craft beer, graffitied walls and indie playlist, stay for the New York pizzas and wings.

Blackpool
Café or Coffee Shop
HIVE Blackpool

HIVE is an independent artisan quality coffee shop with its own art gallery, whose ‘GuggenHive’ wall gives a leg-up to emerging artists.

Blackpool
Event venue
Empress Ballroom

The Empress Ballroom is a famous Blackpool venue in the heart of Winter Gardens. It has a spectacular interior, and a capacity of 3350. This makes it a wonderful place for concerts and large events.

Charabanc blackpool
Blackpool
Shop
Charabanc

Charabanc is your go-to for vintage and handcrafted items including fashion, gifts and homewares.

West Coast Rock Cafe

Family owned restaurant that is famous for it’s burgers and brews its own beer, with a good location is close to the Winter Gardens. Its lockdown delivery menu offers everything you need for a family night in.

Mandarin
Blackpool
Restaurant
Michael Wan’s Mandarin

Think of Blackpool and what springs to mind? Whatever it is, it’s probably not top tier Cantonese dining. But a visit to Michael Wan’s Mandarin might just change that.

La Fontana
Blackpool
Restaurant
La Fontana

This cosy, family-run trattoria is perfect for couples and families alike, pairing lovingly-prepared plates of Italian classics with twinkling fairy lights, roman pillars and a fountain.

Image courtesy of Saoko Cocktail Bar.
Blackpool
Restaurant
Saoko Cocktail Club

This cocktail bar may be the new kid on the Blackpool block, but it’s already renowned for its excellent service and imaginative drinks that offer an ‘experience and a story’.

Twisted
Blackpool
Restaurant
Twisted Indian Street Food

Blackpool’s number one Indian restaurant, Twisted Indian packs a flavour punch and isn’t afraid to mix the traditional with the modern. Their motto? ‘Being normal is boring.’

Abington Street Market
Blackpool
Restaurant
Abington Street Market Food Hall

Housing six independent food traders, two bars and a coffee shop, Abington Street Market Food Hall is a great choice for… choice! Great when you’re in a big (or fussy!) group.

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