Rough Magic at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
When we think of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, our minds often jump to the iconic trio of witches who foresee Macbeth’s rise to power, sparking a dark and tangled web of ambition, manipulation and murder. In Rough Magic, these very witches take centre stage once more – but in this show made for kids, they’re inviting us into their world, not as passive observers, but as eager apprentices.
From the moment the witches appear, the energy is electric. “Do we have any witches, fairies, spirits or ghosts in the room?” they cry, scanning the audience. Dozens of small hands shoot into the air. Among them is Nona (Rosemarie Akwafo), a witch in training who has been blamed for what her elders call “the Macbeth incident”. It turns out that Nona’s prophecy is what inspired Macbeth’s bloodthirsty path to kingship, and her mentors, Audeja (Bryony Twydle) and Morai (Janet Etuk), are determined to ensure she doesn’t repeat her mistakes. Together, they guide us through the “Order of Ceremony”, promising that by the end of the show, we too will become Apprentice Guardians.
We’re invited to participate throughout – casting spells, spying on humans, singing songs and shouting “boo!” at the villainous Henry IX (played with comic brilliance by co-writer Kerry Frampton). Frampton’s performance is a highlight: silly, sharp and just the right amount of menacing. She playfully ropes in unsuspecting parents, much to the delight of their children, creating a warm sense of mischief and spontaneity.
Rough Magic cleverly weaves in characters and themes from across Shakespeare’s plays – not just Macbeth and The Tempest, but also A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with familiar faces like Puck popping up. It’s a well-considered, accessible introduction to Shakespeare plays for young audiences aged between five and 12, blending education with entertainment in a way that never feels forced.
There’s also a thoughtful message for children to take home. In the show’s closing moments, the cast leads a chant – “All that is now, all that is done and everything that is to come.” It’s a gentle reminder that while we can’t change the past, we can move forward with hope, curiosity and courage.
Directed by the Globe’s Director of Education Lucy Cuthbertson and co-written by Frampton and Splendid Productions’ Associate Director Ben Hales, Rough Magic is a spellbinding theatrical experience for the whole family. With a running time of one hour and 50 minutes (including a 20-minute interval), it strikes the perfect balance for young audiences – just enough time to be fully immersed in this enchanting, collaborative world without ever feeling restless.
Chloe Vilarrubi
Photos: Manuel Harlan
Rough Magic is at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse from 19th July until 23rd August 2025. For further information or to book, visit the theatre’s website here.
Watch the trailer for Rough Magic at Sam Wanamaker Playhouse here:
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