Philadelphia Theatre Company is set to transform William Shakespeare’s classic play Julius Caesar into a contemporary political thriller with its upcoming production titled Caesar. This adaptation will run from February 6 to February 22, 2024, at the Suzanne Roberts Theatre on South Broad Street, aiming to resonate with today’s politically charged environment.
Modern Take on a Timeless Tale
Adapted by Co-Artistic Director Tyler Dobrowsky and directed by Morgan Green, the production condenses Shakespeare’s sprawling narrative into a tight, 90-minute format. This reinterpretation focuses on the themes of power, ambition, and political violence, making it feel less like a history lesson and more like a captivating news event.
The adaptation emphasizes the chaotic nature of modern politics, marked by social media frenzies and public spectacle. As Dobrowsky notes, the production confronts audiences with the striking similarities between Shakespeare’s work and current political climates, where noble intentions often lead to unexpected chaos. The original Shakespearean language is preserved but enhanced with modern video, sound, and cinematic design, amplifying the urgency of the story.
Character Dynamics and Design Elements
At the center of Caesar is Brutus, portrayed by Matteo Scammell. He grapples with the moral implications of joining a conspiracy to assassinate Caesar in the name of freedom, only to unleash a civil war. The narrative draws parallels to contemporary America, where leaders manipulate public perception and navigate a landscape filled with scrutiny.
Green approaches the classic as both a character study and a visually immersive experience. Known for her innovative designs, she incorporates choreography and movement to illustrate the descent from eloquent speeches to raw violence. The production’s ensemble, consisting of just four actors, streamlines Shakespeare’s extensive cast, allowing for a more intimate exploration of political alliances. Alongside Scammell, Jaime Maseda makes his PTC debut as Marc Antony, with J Hernandez as Cassius and Jude Sandy as Caesar.
Choreography by Jungwoong Kim plays a critical role in building emotional intensity, guiding the audience through the escalating chaos of civil war. The use of immersive media design features original video content and footage shot in Philadelphia, creating a modern-day chorus that reflects how information spreads in today’s world.
As part of its educational mission, PTC will host two student matinees on February 12 and February 19, in addition to pre-show events and post-show discussions. The performances are designed to be accessible, offering audio-described, open-captioned, and ASL-interpreted shows. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased through the Philadelphia Theatre Company’s website. Due to the depiction of violence, the production is recommended for audiences aged 12 and older.
This bold adaptation invites both seasoned Shakespeare fans and newcomers to engage with a timeless narrative through a contemporary lens, highlighting the enduring relevance of the themes explored in Julius Caesar.
