Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence Review at the Edinburgh Fringe

Is this a smash hit I see before me? Crash Theatre Company and House of Oz are making a splash with a thrilling, hilarious, and high-energy reimagining of Macbeth like you've never seen it before.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Photo by Declan Young

Set on a hot pink netball court, complete with bench and hoop, the show launches into action with the cast warming up to Spark (An Irish song, I might add), and from that moment, I knew we were in for something special.

The plot mirrors Macbeth, but with a fierce twist: Macbeth is now, Mac Beth, an ambitious Year 11 netballer determined to rise to the top, no matter the cost. With a sharp, witty script by Courtney McManus, this one-hour musical blends Shakespearean drama with schoolyard politics, turbo-charged choreography, and unforgettable tunes.

Think Macbeth meets Mean Girls on a netball court; but honestly, that comparison doesn’t do it justice. This show is utterly unique.

With slick Choreography by Courtney McManus, clean direction by Bec Price and a catchy score and lyrics by Bec Price, Ana Ferreira Manhoso and Shannon Rogers really brings this show to life. As I watched the performance, I really wanted a spotify playlist of the songs, especially "Hey Mac, Watch Your Back" and my wishes were answered when they announced that they just released an album which can be accessed here.

The ensemble is stacked with triple threats, each performer holding their own with fierce energy and vocal prowess. Courtney McManus is perfectly cast as Coach Duncan, delivering sharp comic timing. Orla-Jean Poole shines in the central role of Mac, capturing the character’s ambition with poise and control. Kate Sisley (Summer Banquo) stuns with her rich vocal performance, particularly in “Here If You Need.” Shannon Rogers is both fiery and funny as Chloe Macduff, absolutely owning the stage in the powerhouse number “Hey Mac, Watch Your Back.” Georgia McGivern deserves a special mention for her scene-stealing turn as Brooke Ross. Her comedic timing and impressive vocal range makes her a standout performer. Ana Ferreira Manhoso, Gabriella Munro, and Emily Semple round out the cast with standout vocals and tight choreography.

Is Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence worth seeing?

Absolutely. If I could give this six stars, I would because I fucking loved this show! If you’ve got a spare slot in your Fringe schedule, fill it with this. If you don’t... Make one. Don’t walk, run, before it sells out!

Ticket Information and Show Times for Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence.

Lady Macbeth Played Wing Defence runs until the 25th of August at the Studio One at Assembly George Square Studios, Edinburgh as part of the Edinburgh Fringe. Show time is at 4:15PM. Tickets can be accessed through the Edinburgh Fringe website.

Location:  Studio One at Assembly George Square Studios, Edinburgh

Date of Review: 1st of August

Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Disclaimer: I was invited to this show on August 1st, 2025 in exchange for an honest review. All views are my own and were not influenced by the invite.