San Francisco, CA, USA – On April 3, 2025, the American Conservatory Theater (ACT) in San Francisco unveiled a daring reimagining of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth.” Directed by acclaimed theater artist Simone Richards, the production aims to bring a fresh, contemporary perspective to the classic tragedy, reinterpreting it through the lens of today’s political landscape and shifting societal norms. The production, which runs through the end of the month, has already drawn significant attention for its bold approach to casting, design, and thematic exploration.
Richards, known for her boundary-pushing work in both classical and contemporary theatre, decided to set “Macbeth” in a dystopian future where power struggles and surveillance culture dominate society. The production features an all-Black cast, with actors like Tyrone McClendon in the role of Macbeth and Kayla Morrison as Lady Macbeth, two of the city’s most prominent stage performers. Richards’ decision to cast against traditional norms breathes new life into the iconic characters, highlighting themes of power, ambition, and guilt in ways that resonate deeply with modern issues such as systemic inequality, race, and personal responsibility.
In her director’s notes, Richards explained her decision to update the setting and cast: “Shakespeare’s themes of ambition, power, and the corrupting nature of unchecked leadership remain relevant to our society today. I wanted to explore how these themes might play out in a world where technology enables constant surveillance, and where the notion of leadership is increasingly intertwined with public image and media influence.”
The production’s innovative design adds to its contemporary feel. The set, designed by Carla Jordan, features stark, geometric shapes and digital projections that create a sense of cold, oppressive space, reinforcing the eerie atmosphere of the play. The use of multimedia, including live-streamed “news reports” that are integrated into the storyline, brings an added layer of commentary on the role of media in shaping public opinion and controlling narratives.
McClendon’s portrayal of Macbeth is intense and captivating. His raw emotional range, particularly in the soliloquies where his internal conflict is most evident, commands the audience’s attention. Morrison’s Lady Macbeth is equally compelling, with a performance that exudes power and ambition but also a chilling vulnerability as her character spirals into madness. Their chemistry is electric, making the tragic downfall of both characters feel both inevitable and deeply tragic.
Despite its contemporary twist, the production stays true to the core themes of Shakespeare’s work, offering a poignant reflection on the destructive nature of unchecked ambition and the moral consequences of violence. The decision to explore Macbeth’s paranoia and guilt through the lens of surveillance culture feels particularly timely, resonating with today’s audience, who increasingly live in an age of constant monitoring and social media scrutiny.
As San Francisco continues to evolve as a hub for innovative theatre, “Macbeth” at ACT stands out as a powerful example of how classic works can be reinvigorated to speak to modern sensibilities. Richards and her team have succeeded in reinterpreting a timeless piece, making it both a thought-provoking political commentary and a stirring emotional journey. This production is a must-see for anyone interested in how theatre can reflect and challenge contemporary society.
