Macbeth by William Shakespeare at the Lyceum Theatre. Starring Patrick Stewart and Kate Fleetwood. Productions of Macbeth are not very common and although we had seen Macbeth at the Shakespeare Globe in London, that production was so poor that we felt this was the first time we've seen "The Scottish Play." For though the production is a high concept one, it is a production which enhances the play's qualities without adding any distortion. The action takes place in a spooky hospital basement with plenty of video effects. Though the time period is quasi Soviet, the production owes a great deal to Japanese horror films, particularly "The Ring." In this concept, the witches are three scary nurses, played so well that I would venture they are the most successfully realized part of the production. Patrick Stewart is a towering Macbeth, his soliloquies are masterfully presented, "Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow" in particular. Kate Fleetwood is a fierce, ruthless and very sexy Lady Macbeth. Her sleepwalking scene is devastating. When the two leads and the witches are onstage, the production is outstanding. Unfortunately, the rest of the cast is not as good, which makes the second act seem very long when the action switches to England, a tedious and almost interminable scene. At the same time, the modernistic horror effects start to wear thin. Fortunately the climax is chillingly rendered and the bloody head of Macbeth sends the audience away thoroughly shaken. We enjoyed seeing this masterwork in the lovely jewel box Lyceum. When first rate Shakespeare is offered, it is a must and this production certainly qualifies. Broadway Bridge and Tunnel Test Grade: B