Power, betrayal, and love collide in Africa in this reinvigorated Shakespearean classic.
Julius Caesar (2012)
Royal Shakespeare Company
Theater
Characters clash, worlds collide, and flames burst from fingers in this imaginative RSC production that adds a fresh twist to Shakespeare's beloved comedy.
Four young lovers, threatened by unhappy marriages—or worse—flee the court of Athens and stumble into an enchanted forest, where the line between reality and the fairy world blurs. Beneath the humor, a darker current flows as the couples fall prey to the mischievous power of a "love juice." Mathew Baynton (Horrible Histories, Ghosts) delivers genuine hilarity in his portrayal of Bottom, from exaggerated walks to playful tongue stretches, while revealing a deeper longing for belonging.
Directed by Eleanor Rhode, this Dream is a feast for both the eyes and heart, setting the tale in the 1970s while preserving the magical aspects that were first introduced over four hundred years ago.
(Director), Nicholas Armfield (Demetrius), Mathew Baynton (Bottom), Alexander Bellinfantie (Moth), Emily Cundick (Snout), Esme Hough (Cobweb), Ryan Hutton (Lysander), Laurie Jamieson (Snug), Neil McCaul (Egeus), Helen Monks (Rita Quince), Katherine Pearce (Puck), Adrian Richards (Philostrate), Andrew Richardson (Oberon / Theseus), Boadicea Ricketts (Helena), Sirine Saba (Titania / Hippolyta), Dawn Sievewright (Hermia), Eliza Smith (Mustardseed), Mitesh Soni (Flute), Premi Tamang (Starveling), Natalie Thomas (Peaseblossom)