Migdalia Cruz Adapts Shakespeare for Our Time

by Jo Tomalin

The Magic Theatre’s new vibrant production of “Macbeth,” in a modern version by Migdalia Cruz, directed by Liam Vincent, is led by an earthy and feisty Catherine Castellanos as the ambitious general Macbeth. Castellanos is a force of nature commanding every scene!

Macbeth chats to us, and Castellanos displays mischievous unrest with a delicious, casual delivery, as if hanging out with us. Castellanos’ engaging manner breaks apart not only Macbeth’s character, but also Shakespeare’s language in this new adaptation. Playwright Cruz has translated Shakespeare’s words into a streamlined, user-friendly script for this 95-minute performance.

In these days of assault and ambition, Macbeth mirrors and highlights cutthroat political competition, literally. This queer re-telling shows the strength and gutsiness of the Macbeths in their lust for power at any cost. Yet, because Castellanos initially welcomes us warmly, we are hooked with empathy from the start.

Macbeth lives in New York. Sure! And in the gritty 70s, with dynamic societal changes like gay relationships, gangs, and immigration emphasized boldly in the casting. The 70s costumes include tracksuits and heavy gold chains.

Scenic Designer Carlos-Antonio Aceves creates a dark, theatrical world that evokes the lurid darkness of NYC at night. The set design features a creative multi-level set with a bar, alley, and steep stairs, all in black, surrounded by grunge and graffiti. This is a perfect setting for the underhanded scheming we see from Macbeth and others living in the neighborhood.

Both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth are played by women, a focal feature of this production, which populates the play with people who truly reflect our communities. Sarah Nina Hayon plays a glamorous, super ambitious Lady Macbeth, wearing a leopard skin coat and a silky red negligee. As she struts across the stage, Lady M is the cool power player leading Macbeth into a complex web of greed.

When cajoling Macbeth, Hayon reminds us of a viper hissing. Castellanos and Hayon make a forceful pair in their complicated relationship and interactions. Their bursts of strength and vulnerability show us the balance of emotions switching back and forth.

Nora El Samahy plays Banquo, Macbeth’s good friend, imbuing the character with heartfelt honesty from their first meeting. When Macbeth suggests Banquo’s days are numbered, a groan of sympathy rises from the audience.

Bright fluorescent lights flash and change color for every scene, evoking excitement and frenzy! A complete wash of green lights illuminates the witches’ scene, highlighting three gnarly witches in green wigs and quirky, unmatched clothing in shades of green.

The strong ensemble cast, led by Castellanos in an outstanding and layered performance, vividly shows how quickly conflict and violence escalate when ambition is the driving force—a tragedy indeed. Migdalia Cruz and Magic Theatre have produced a new “Macbeth” that is not only powerful but also passionately enlightening and entertaining.

“Macbeth” by William Shakespeare, new modern version by Migdalia Cruz, directed by Liam Vincent, scenic design by Carlos-Antonio Aceves, costumes by Alina Bokovikova, lighting by Justin Partier, sound by Matt Stines, and props by Imani Wilson, by Magic Theatre, San Francisco.

Info: magictheatre.org – to April 5, 2026

Cast: Catherine Castellanos, Juan Amador, Nora el Samahy, Sarah Nina Hayon, Danny Scheie, Kina Kantor, and Brian M. Rivera.