This evening, my wife and I attended the opening of Macbeth at the Tower, presented by the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival — a bold departure from its usual stage at Prescott’s Kinsmen Amphitheatre. This time, the drama unfolded on the historic grounds of the Maitland Tower, with the mighty St. Lawrence River serving as a natural backdrop.
Imagine medieval times, but more intimate — and with Shakespeare whispering through the stones. In this production, the audience doesn’t just watch the story; we become part of it. I felt transported to 11th-century Scotland, standing among the common folk as we witnessed the rise and fall of King and Lady Macbeth.
Speaking with Andrew Iles (Macbeth) after the show, he described the experience as “like real life, with lines from Shakespeare’s Macbeth.” He explained, “At the start, when I come up the hill to encounter the three witches… I don’t need to act like I’m walking up a hill — because I actually did it. When I turn to the crowd for help making a decision… they’re right there, I’m able to talk to you right in front of me.”
Throughout the roughly 90-minute performance, both cast and audience move across various parts of the Maitland Tower campus. The immersive staging transforms each scene into a living moment.
One standout sequence unfolds in the Chart House, where Macbeth is confronted by Banquo’s ghost (Richard Lam). The audience lines either side of the room, becoming the lords at Macbeth’s banquet. What begins as a triumphant celebration quickly turns chilling as Banquo’s ghost appears — visible only to Macbeth, though we see it too. Lady Macbeth’s desperate attempts to cover for her husband make the scene almost unbearably intense. It was emotional, haunting, and unforgettable.
Then came the iconic “Bubble, bubble, boil and trouble!” moment — staged in the very heart of the tower. The circular stone walls amplified the eerie energy, making the witches’ cauldron scene feel otherworldly.
But the most powerful moment of the night belonged to Hilary Adams (Lady Macbeth). At the river’s edge, overcome by guilt, she tries to wash the blood from her hands — before wading into the St. Lawrence itself, seeking absolution. It was raw, symbolic, and breathtaking. Absolutely gripping performance, one of the best of the night! (And because we’re a music blog, I can’t be remiss in mentioning that Hilary Adams is also a recording artist. She released her self‑titled debut album late last year — a gorgeous project that showcases a completely different side of her artistry. You can listen to it here: Hilary Adams – Album by Hilary Adams)
This wasn’t just theatre — it was Macbeth, lived and felt. The cast and crew delivered an extraordinary production that will linger long after the final line. With only 70 seats per show, this intimate experience is sure to sell out quickly once word spreads.
Even more impressive: the same cast also performs R&J and Joni concurrently at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre. I can’t remember why I went into the kitchen most days, yet these young players flawlessly juggle multiple Shakespearean worlds. If I were on stage, it might sound more like, “Wherefore art thou, alas poor Yorick, whether ’tis nobler to OUT OUT damn spot.”
A special shout-out goes to Phillip Ling and his family, whose vision for the Maitland Tower as a community hub is coming to life in spectacular fashion. Seeing that vision realized through Macbeth is nothing short of inspiring. We’re fortunate to have such world-class artistry right here in our township — in one of the most beautiful and historic places to live.
MacBeth at the tower runs through August 14 but only limited shows have seating available. You can find your tickets for MacBeth at the tower here: Macbeth at the Tower | St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival
If you’re looking for more to do in the South Grenville area along the St. Lawrence River visit South Grenville Tourism | Chamber of Commerce
