Playwright: William Shakespeare. At: Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Ct., Glenview. Tickets: 847-242-6000 or writerstheatre.org; $35-$80. Runs through: Oct. 16
Theatergoers will recognize the title of this Shakespearean tragedy and perhaps shudder at the memory of studying it in high school.
However, this new, streamlined, 90-minute version of the Bard's 400-year-old drama opens the company's 25th season. It's co-adapted and co-directed by Artistic Director Michael Halberstam and Scott Parkinson, and is unbelievably fresh and timely. With the political race in full swing, one can't escape obvious comparisons to the campaign style of one particular candidate. The nine talented ensemble membersmost of whom take on multiple rolesare each strong, fully committed and articulate, making Shakespeare's dialogue and intent understandable and relatable.
This masterpiece, based on Roman history, is about power struggles. It examines tyranny and ambition while exploring friendships, loyalties, secret betrayals, patriotism and honor. The ominous opening scenes lead perfectly toward Caesar's assassination; however, it's Brutus' psychological struggle with Cassius, Mark Antony and himself that drives the second half of the play.
Directed with a sense of foreboding, every character is a real, flesh-and-blood individual. Caesar, as played by Madrid St. Angelo, exudes a commanding arrogance in public while relaxing his guard in private around his wife, Calphurnia, whom Christine Bunuan plays with spirit and devotion. This dichotomy gives the emperor real humanity instead of simply being an historical figure. Brutus, magnificently portrayed by Kareem Bandealy, takes us on a soul-searching journey that ultimately leads to his own downfall. Brutus' relationship with Cassius, sensitively played by Scott Parkinson, seems more than mere friendship, a common ancient Roman lifestyle. Transgender actor Sydney Germaine plays Octavius, Caesar's adopted son, with strength and dignity by. United with Thomas Vincent Kelly's Mark Antony, the two become strong adversaries.
The dystopian look of this production is courtesy of Courtney O'Neill, Mike Tutaj and Jesse Klug, with their epic scenic, projection and lighting designs. Costumer Mara Blumenfeld exquisitely adorns her cast in black and blood red, making this excellent production a feast for both the eye and ear.