By John Lyle Belden

Embracing the weird and macabre atmosphere of October, Garfield Shakespeare Company presents the tragedy of “Macbeth.”

In a convenient coincidence, just last month Southbank staged “Equivocation,” based on events around the 1606 premiere of William Shakespeare’s “Scottish Play,” presented to the Scottish King, James Stuart (James VI of Scotland, James I of England and Ireland). In a way, the present production works as a companion piece to the former.

However, this play stands well on its own, presented in full in its Medieval Highland setting, complete with an emphasis on its supernatural elements. Alongside the title character, his scheming wife, and various nobles, the stars of the show are the Weird Sisters – the Three Witches (played by Sydney Engelstein, Shawntae Buchanan, and Amalia Lynn Howard) with their leader/goddess Hecate (Zella Mae Elm). Their presence is felt throughout, even in scenes where they aren’t specifically referenced. Any of the Three may make herself a supporting character to move events along, including the mysterious “Third Murderer” that Shakespeare wrote into a pivotal scene. As a convenience, and upping the spooky factor, a Witch hexes away any unfortunate fallen character off the stage. Kudos to director Aaron Collins for these touches.

With the “hurly-burly” of a battle done, a rebellious Thane (Scottish noble similar to Earl) captured, and generals Macbeth (Christopher O’Hara) and Banquo (Chad Yadon) victorious, these two encounter the Witches. They greet Macbeth with titles including ones he doesn’t yet hold, then inform Banquo he will father a line of kings (James was believed to be of that lineage). When the first part of their prediction comes true – Macbeth attains the doomed Thane’s title – the further declaration that he will be King of Scotland sets his mind racing.

In celebration of their victory, King Duncan (Hans Cummings) and his sons Malcolm (Mallory Ward) and Donalbain (Dalton McKinney) go to Macbeth’s castle at Inverness. Lady Macbeth (Leah Hodson), informed of the prophesy, strongly encourages her husband to murder the ruler. Once it’s done (with the king’s guards framed and conveniently dispatched), the sons flee, leaving Macbeth with the crown. However, fellow Thane Macduff (Dillon Richter) suspects the truth and slips away, tragically leaving his wife (Miranda Khoury) vulnerable.

As you likely know, things just get more maddening and tragic from here on out.

The cast also includes Cheyenne Henson (as Banquo’s son, Fleance), Derrick Krober, Bill Baker, Jake Hobbs, Cheri Walker, Elizabeth Ann Fasbinder, and Jean Long.

Excellent performances throughout, especially Hodson’s portrayal of Lady Macbeth, working from power-mad to just plain mad. O’Hara ably employs his distinctive voice to fully express the titular character. From the rush of fate to slowly learning its cost, we sense his growing regret and desperation throughout the scenes that follow him literally taking that fate into his own hands.

The Witches prove their essential place in the play, making this a Halloween treat. Their demeanors flex to reveal subtle power in a scene, then shaken off with a wicked giggle as they glide offstage. The performance of the cauldron dance shows respect for the Old Ways embraced by modern practitioners. And Elm being a musician greatly enhances her portrayal of Hecate; her instruments include one that reveals how a certain familiar spooky sound-effect is made.  

You can’t beat the price, as Garfield Shakespeare Company performances are free. Find them Thursday through Saturday evenings, Oct. 9-11 at 7:30 p.m., in the open autumn air of Garfield Park’s MacAllister Amphitheatre, 24325 Conservatory Dr., Indianapolis (enter from either the top or bottom of the hillside). Find information at gscindy.org.