
This is not your everyday Julius Caesar. It's set in a women's prison (think "Orange is the New Black" but even more bad ass and BRITISH) and is played by an all-female cast of British actors. Sexuality does not play into the production, nor does sexual orientation: only power. Sometimes, the conversational presentation that these actors bring to the text make it seem like you're not even seeing a play it's that second-nature. The conceit seems to be a play within a play, but there are times when I wasn't even sure that this was true, and I've seen it twice. Mind is blown in every scene, it's that riveting.
The production was even better in this space as compared to the Donmar, although I think the Donmar space felt more terrifying because everything was so close in that tiny space. Still gripping, challenging, emotional, and terrifying. It's all hard rock, blood, guts, fear, confusion, terror and courage: all in the name of country and politics and freedom. I never really knew Julius Caesar was this much of a nail biter until I saw this production. It thankfully wipes away any other production I have seen (i.e., that Denzel Washington on Broadway fiasco) and sets the bar very high for any I see in the future.
I liked Frances Barber as Caesar even more this time. Her voice is amazing - thrilling and frightening. Dame Harriet Walter as Brutus, Jenny Jules as Cassius, and Cush Jumbo as Marc Antony knocked out of the park again. Dame Harriet's portrait of Brutus' agony in choosing between the love of his friend and the love of his country was palpable, Supporting cast is phenomenal indeed. The cast is very diverse in age and race - really lends to the fascination.

Post show stagedoor notes: Frances Barber was lovely and we loved talking to her about the differences in the staging and theatre between London and New York. (Success - I managed not to fangirl over her episode of Morse). We also got Cush Jumbo's autograph. I was a little star struck by this ridiculously amazing actress. Then there was Dame Harriet Walter. I was actually coherent this time with her and managed to forego the use of any cursing words in her presence. I did tell her to come back to New York all the time and she asked me to arrange it. I'll be absolutely happy to do so, Dame Harriet Walter.
That time in London:
1 comment:
so jealous I adore Harriet!:o)
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