As rehearsals continue for Macbeth, we sat down with one of the show’s composition/sound design team, Ian Ross, to talk about returning to Tobacco Factory Theatres, creating the sound world of the production, and how music and sound are shaping this dark, fast-moving tragedy from inside the rehearsal room.
What was it about this particular production of Macbeth that made you want to get involved?
I think this is probably everyone’s answer, but it was really about working with Heidi [Vaughan – the director] again — and with Tobacco Factory Theatres. I did The Winter’s Tale here and absolutely loved it.
There’s something about the way this theatre operates that gives you a lot of licence as an artist. There’s a real sense of freedom. With Heidi especially, there’s space for your own ideas, which is beautiful. It’s generous, open, and genuinely collaborative — which is rare and really special.
Can you tell us a little about your history with Tobacco Factory Theatres and theatre in Bristol more generally?
My first experience at the Tobacco Factory was actually 101 Dalmatians, a long time ago. I’ve also done a few gigs here with my band, The 11 Magpies, so I’ve had different connections to the space over the years.
For a long time I worked with a company called Height, who made lots of work at Bristol Old Vic, so I was in and out of Bristol for years. But in terms of actually making work in Bristol, The Winter’s Tale was the first time I’d really done something for Bristol audiences, in Bristol.
I’ve been coming here for a long time, but it took a while to properly make work here — and I absolutely loved it.
How did that feel — finally making work in Bristol?
Brilliant. I’ve made shows for all sorts of places around the world, but there was something really grounding about this.
We were rehearsing at Spike Island, just down the road from my house. Being able to cycle to work, put something together locally, and feel rooted in the place — I hadn’t experienced that in over twenty years. It was a real joy.
What can audiences expect from your music for this production of Macbeth?
I think the music will be lively, bombastic and eerie — but also emotional and heart-wrenching. There are moments of real shock in it.
It’s also worth saying that I’m working closely with an old friend, Alex Lupo, on both composition and sound design. We’ve collaborated as musicians on lots of projects before, so there’s a shared language between us.
Because of that, the sound world will feel experimental, progressive and challenging — with a real sense of collaboration running through it.
You can hear Ian & Alex’s music in Macbeth at Tobacco Factory Theatres from 19th Feb – 28th March 2026.
Venue: Factory Theatre, Tobacco Factory Theatres
Tickets: From £15
Box Office: 0117 902 0344
Age recommendation: 12+
For full details on BSL-interpreted, captioned and relaxed performances, visit the Macbeth page on our website.
Posted on 29 January 2026
