Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff
Tue 28 Feb – Sat 4 Mar
This play not only focuses on the brutal Roman conquest and occupation of Britain, it is a commentary on imperialism and abuse of power, separated into three parts. The first act takes place during Julius Caesar’ second expedition to Britain in 54 BC, and how this affected the local communities and structures. With linguistic separation and the undoubtable culture shock comes the inevitable brutality of human nature. The second act then follows the reaction of the Brits. Do they fight back? Do they surrender? Do they do something else? Later, it follows a rogue SAS officer in 1980s Ireland on a mission to assassinate an IRA cell leader.
As a general warning, the theme of this show is ‘The rape of Britain’ and it is shown both figuratively and literally. Historically, this play has cause controversy over a scene which contained attempted rape. There was even a failed prosecution attempt by Mary Whitehouse for ‘procuring an act of gross indecency’, which was a law used at the time to oppress and entrap homosexuals rather than ban theatre productions.
This is a play about propaganda and political analysis; the relevance of this play shows power in words and manipulation that the world needs to see today. Like Shakespeare, Brenton never states his own opinion but allows the audience to take in his dramatic imagery and lets them come to their own conclusion.
Tickets: £12/£10. Info: 029 2030 4400 / www.chapter.org