Julius Caesar

Synopsis

Victorious and valiant, yet proud and tyrannical, Julius Caesar is murdered by his closest allies. But the assassination divides Rome and bitter war begins.

Our Review:

18 May 2006

The clash, colour and vim with which this Julius Caesar bursts into life is in stark contrast to the enervating drabness of David Farr’s 2004 production at the Swan. ‘Mechanicals’ in vivid hued, middle eastern-style dress, sound serpentines, pound drums and adorn a mannequin of Caesar.

But the revels are quickly ended and what follows, on a stage heavily under lit with figures emerging from and receding into blackness at the rear of the performance space, is in stark contrast. Small orbs, suspended from lengths of chain, are the only props. Often, members of the cast not engaged in current stage business look on, indistinct and mute witnesses, from the back.

It’s swift-footed, clearly staged production which eschews any extravagant directorial concepts or wilful updating. This is a Rome of togas and swords, not blackshirts, swastikas and guns.

Unfortunately, what follows only intermittently lives up to the impact of the opening and Sean Holmes’ production is marred ...

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