On the anniversary of the 18th year since the passing of the renowned mime artist Marcel Marceau, theatre group Swapnadal is presenting a special rendition of their acclaimed mime production “Macbeth” tomorrow, September 22, at 7pm at the Experimental Theatre Hall within Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.
Under the direction of Zahid Repon, “Macbeth” interprets William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy through a Bangladeshi mime lens, reimagined by Juana Sobnom. The performance, utilizing silence, gestures, and movements, follows the tragic downfall of a courageous general driven by ambition to commit regicide, seize power, and eventually succumb to a cycle of bloodshed and betrayal.
While Shakespearean works have been adapted worldwide across various mediums, Swapnadal’s rendition of “Macbeth” distinguishes itself as the first full-length mimodrama conceived and executed in Bangladesh through an experimental research approach.
The ensemble cast features Juenna, Hasan, Sumaiya, Nishok, Shishir, Shyamal, Jebu, Sonali, Anindya, Orko, Nisorgo, Shafique, Zawad, Ali, and other talented performers.
Behind the scenes, Fazle Rabbi Sukorn crafted the stage and lighting design, Hasanuzzaman oversaw choreography, and the costumes and props were a collaborative effort by Juana Sobnom, Hasanuzzaman, and Sumaiya Shishir. The soundscape was composed by Shakhawat Shyamal and Mizaul Islam Khan, with Shyamal also taking on the role of production manager. This performance marks the 18th presentation of “Macbeth.”
Marcel Marceau, born in Strasbourg, France, on March 22, 1923, dedicated almost six decades to advancing mime as a universal art form. Known globally as the “Master of Mime,” his legacy endures, despite his passing on September 22, 2007, resonating through generations of performers.