Philadelphia Theatre Company (PTC) is set to debut a modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, titled Caesar. This new production aims to transform the classic tale of power and betrayal into a dynamic 90-minute political thriller, running from February 6 to February 22, 2024, at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre in Philadelphia.
Modernizing a Timeless Tragedy
In this reimagined version, adapted by PTC Co-Artistic Director Tyler Dobrowsky and directed by Morgan Green, the essence of Shakespeare’s work is distilled into a narrative that resonates with today’s politically charged atmosphere. The production is designed to evoke the urgency of a breaking-news event rather than a traditional history lesson.
Dobrowsky emphasizes the relevance of the play, highlighting how it addresses themes of democratic ideals clashing with human ambition. The adaptation strips away extraneous elements to focus on the emotional intensity and rapid pace of the story, making it accessible for both seasoned Shakespeare audiences and newcomers alike.
At the heart of this adaptation is Brutus, portrayed by Matteo Scammell. He is a senator who joins a conspiracy to assassinate Caesar, motivated by a desire for liberty. Yet, this act of rebellion triggers chaos, plunging Rome into civil war. The reimagined setting closely mirrors contemporary America, where leaders are depicted as controlling public perception in a world dominated by social media and political theater.
A Visually Engaging Experience
Green approaches the production as a blend of intimate character study and immersive cinematic experience. Known for her innovative designs, she incorporates choreography and a dynamic video landscape to illustrate the escalating tension from eloquent speeches to violent confrontations. According to Green, the play examines how power often relies on confidence and performance until it devolves into brute force.
The cast has been streamlined to four actors, a choice that highlights the personal dynamics and shifting alliances central to the drama. Besides Scammell, Jaime Maseda makes his PTC debut as Marc Antony, with J Hernandez as Cassius and Jude Sandy as Caesar. This condensed cast emphasizes the intimacy and volatility of political relationships.
Movement and physical storytelling are pivotal in this adaptation. Choreographed by Jungwoong Kim, the production builds toward an expressionistic finale that immerses the audience in the turmoil of civil conflict. The use of immersive media design, featuring original video content and footage shot in Philadelphia, serves to enhance the narrative by reflecting the rapid dissemination of information in modern society.
PTC will also engage with local students through two matinee performances on February 12 and February 19 as part of its educational initiatives. Additionally, the company plans to host various pre-show events, post-show discussions, and performances designed to be accessible, including audio-described, open-captioned, and ASL-interpreted shows. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased through the Philadelphia Theatre Company website. This production is recommended for audiences aged 12 and up due to its depiction of violence.
This adaptation of Julius Caesar not only aims to challenge perceptions of the classic play but also to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences, capturing the essence of political strife in a visually arresting manner.
