Lady Macbeth is one of Shakespeare’s most iconic and enigmatic women—a character often remembered for her ambition, her ruthlessness, and that haunting descent into madness. But in this interpretation of Macbeth, Julie Wee brings a fresh, deeply human take to the role—one that’s rooted in intention and vulnerability. In the midst of the craziness of rehearsals, we sat with Julie as she shared what it means to step into Lady Macbeth’s shoes (and psyche), what’s different about performing in-the-round for Shakespeare in the Park, and why this reimagined version might just change the way you see the character forever.

1. Lady Macbeth is often seen as one of Shakespeare’s most powerful and ambitious women. How does this version of her differ from traditional portrayals?

There are so many subtle ways in which Lady Macbeth can be played. For me, it’s less about being different for being different sake, and more about really trying to get to the heart of who she is. Why does she makes such decisive, unapologetic choices (in the beginning) to mould Macbeth and boldly push him to kill King Duncan? What’s the urgency to fulfil the prophecy that Macbeth will be king, to take fate into their own hands rather than passively waiting for the prophecy to be fulfilled? Between myself, Ghafir (Macbeth) and our director Guy Unsworth, we have created a backstory that will give Lady Macbeth strong motivations to do whatever it takes to help her husband become king.

2. You’re no stranger to Shakespeare in the Park. What’s different about this year’s production, and how has the rehearsal process been for you?

In this park production, we will have sub-stages which cut through and into the audience, so the audience will be incredibly close to us in some key scenes, This is my 7^th Shakespeare in the Park production, and the first time I’ll be performing within the audience, and in-the-round. It'll be challenging for us actors because the audience will be picnicking at our feet as we perform some really dramatic scenes. I'm daunted and excited by it! It'll definitely be an enhanced experience for the audience as it will give them a more intimate experience of the play. 

3. From her early manipulation of Macbeth to the infamous “Out, damned spot” scene, Lady Macbeth’s journey is intense. Which moment in the play do you think will surprise audiences the most?

Lady Macbeth's early certainty and fearlessness dissolve as she witnesses her husband consumed by paranoia and guilt, holding onto power at all cost, and realising she was a catalyst for this. Most devastatingly for her, an irreparable chasm has formed between them. Our director, Guy, has done a clever melding of certain characters (which you’d likely spot if you know the play well) which gives Lady Macbeth added fodder for her final unravelling and death. I’m intentionally being cryptic so as not to give too much away!

4. What do you hope people will take away from this production, especially those experiencing Macbeth for the first time.

I foresee our audience being taken on a thrilling ride, as the play doesn’t let up. Guy has edited the structure of the play so it is extremely fast paced, with fight sequences, puppetry, epic music and key scenes will be performed right up close to the audience on the sub-stages. Visually I know it will be spectacular.

Shakespeare in the Park – Macbeth runs from 7 May – 1 Jun 2025 at Fort Canning Park. Get your tickets here.