Most of us are aware that for several generations, all roles in Shakespeare's plays were portrayed by men and boys - no girls allowed! So turn about is indeed fair play. Actors' Shakespeare Project, under the direction of Bryn Boice, are presenting their all female version of "Julius Caesar" at Huntington Theatre's Studio 210 through December 17th. Director Boice has made the choice, not only to cast all women in the roles, but also to transform character names into female equivalents. The audience is asked to imagine a science fiction motif, with the action taking place in some unspecified time in what feels like a very dark subterranean post-apocalyptic world. The result is an intriguing new look at the familiar action of ambition thwarted and political intrigue run amok.
 |
| Marya Lowry as Brutus Liz Adams as Julius Caesar Jade Guerra as Cimber Julius Caesar" Actors' Shakespeare Project Directed by Bryn Boice Huntington Theatre Studio 210 Through December 17th |
The cast is made up of some of the best of Boston actors. The always impressive Liz Adams as Caesar sports punked-out blonde hair that made me think of Billy Idol in "White Wedding." After the assassination, Ms. Adams returns as Octavius Caesar, leading the charge to avenge the death of Julius. Marianna Bassham is impressive as Anthony, especially in delivering the iconic funeral oration. Marya Lowry is a powerful presence as Brutus, a reluctant participant in the plot to assassinate Caesar. The estimable Bobbie Steinbach forces us to look at the character of Cassius in new ways. MaConnia Chesser gives a refreshing down home patina to the character of Casca. Rounding out the universally strong cast as Julee Antonellis as Cicero, Erin Eva Butcher as Calpurnia, Jade Guerra as Metellus Cimber, and Charlotte Kinder as Portia.
 |
| Jade Guerra as Cimber Liz Adams as Julius Caesar Marya Lowry as Brutus Julius Caesar" Actors' Shakespeare Project Directed by Bryn Boice Huntington Theatre Studio 210 Through December 17th |
Set Design is by Cristina Todesco, Lighting by Jen Rock, Costumes by Rebecca Jewett, Sound by Amy Altadonna.
If you are familiar with this play, I invite you to make your way to Huntington Avenue and be prepared to see the familiar through different lenses and to hear the familiar lines spoken by different voices.
Through December 17th.
Actors' Shakespeare Project Website
Enjoy!
Al
No comments:
Post a Comment