Wed 13 Feb
words: DOM GWYTHER
★★★★☆
One of essential themes William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, performed here by Cardiff University’s theatre company Act One, is the unchanging nature of politics. As director Ben Atterbury suggests “there will never come a time when Julius Caesar is irrelevant”. As Caesar’s own political party plots against him, questions of public perception, PR and dissent were as relevant to Ancient Rome as they are to 21st century Britain.
The production highlights this continued political relevance with subtlety and style. Programe’s feature newspaper headlines detailing Caesar’s rise to power and a scandal surrounding ‘Cimbergate’. The opening of the play and scene changes also use a recording of Tony Blair’s 1997 victory speech.
The most striking element of the production however is the stage itself. The play has been staged in Cardiff City Hall’s Council Chamber. The imposing room features the grand architecture of a high, domed roof, marble columns and the centrepiece of a impressive chandelier. The play couldn’t wish for a better setting given the content, the grandeur of the chamber combined with the odd reminder of modernism such as flat screen TVs and security cameras highlights the combination of the old and the new perfectly.
Unfortunately one of the productions greatest strengths is also its biggest weakness. The circular stage and the surrounding benches where the action takes place can at times leave audience members with a view of the back of an actors head or force them to turn in order to watch a particular speech or dramatic death.
Given the difficult staging it is fortunate that the cast are at the absolute top of their game, ensuring the emotion of a line is never missed. Innovative gender-neutral casting allows for some bold layered performances. As the central protagonist Ellen Green portrays Brutus’s inner conflict and guilt with a great subtlety that is occasionally allowed to pour into anguished speeches.
Likewise, Jess Hall’s female Caesar is another welcome interpretation. With slow, deliberate delivery, Caesar commands attention and respect, although her voice is rarely raised, Caesar’s absolute authority is unquestioned. This is not to say the female members of the cast dominate the production, Ali Baird portrays the duality of Mark Antony’s private and public faces with a powerful depth.
Outstanding performances and impressive production combine to make Act One’s Julius Caesar an engaging, powerful and above all relevant piece of theatre.
Act One Presents Julius Caesar, until Sat 16 Feb. Tickets: £6-£7. Info: 029 2078 1458 / www.boxoffice.cardiffstudents.com