Julius Caesar from Delaware Shakespeare Explores Tyranny Delaware Shakespeare’s production of “Julius Caesar” is a poignant exploration of the dangers of tyranny and the struggle for freedom. Set in a modern-day Delaware, the play follows the rise and fall of Julius Caesar, an ambitious politician who becomes increasingly corrupt and oppressive as he gains power. The production opens with a powerful speech by Caesar (Ryan Clark), who declares his intentions to become “the first emperor of Delaware.” His words are met with cheers from the crowd, but also with skepticism and unease from his closest allies, Brutus (Robert St. John) and Cassius (William Shakespeare). As Caesar’s tyranny grows, so too does the resistance against him. Brutus and Cassius lead a conspiracy to assassinate him, believing that it is the only way to save the republic. The assassination scene is executed with raw intensity, highlighting the complexities of betrayal and the desperation of those who strive for freedom. Director Alan Jordan skillfully uses modern staging to draw parallels between the political machinations of Ancient Rome and the challenges of contemporary society. Caesar’s use of social media and his manipulation of the masses mirrors the rise of demagogues and the erosion of democratic values in today’s world. The cast delivers nuanced performances that breathe life into Shakespeare’s timeless characters. Clark portrays Caesar as both charismatic and menacing, while St. John’s Brutus is torn between his love for his country and his loyalty to his friend. Shakespeare’s Cassius brings a cunning and manipulative energy to the stage, while Portia (Jessica Murai) and Calpurnia (Claire Sims) provide poignant glimpses into the lives of those affected by tyranny. Delaware Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” is a timely and thought-provoking production that resonates with audiences today. It reminds us of the fragility of freedom and the importance of speaking out against oppression. By exploring the timeless themes of tyranny and resistance, the play challenges us to question our own political landscape and to strive for a more just and equitable society.
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I first encountered Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” as many of us do, in my high school English class. I was known as a “theater nerd,” and many of my classmates playfully poked fun at me for my frequent (and unprovoked) statements about loving the Bard. But as we trudged through reading this particular piece, I became more and more in tune with my 16-year-old classmates: “This piece is boring!” I thought.
Fast forward to today. I am in my first six months as the new Artistic Director of Delaware Shakespeare, and we have chosen to program “Julius Caesar” for our annual summer festival production in Rockwood Park. So what has changed over the years that now makes me appreciate this piece of work, not only producing it, but also performing on the show?
I was first introduced to Delaware Shakespeare in 2019 when I auditioned for their season.
Although I hadn’t booked any of the major productions, David Stradley, the producing artistic director at the time, sent me an email saying he wanted to “keep me in the fold” and invited me that summer to see “The Merry Wives of Windsor”…
The gig I attended was a hot evening, and many of us in the audience had tried to attend the previous night’s gig, which had been rained out. Still, the audience was full of smiling faces, people enjoying their picnic snacks and chatting in anticipation of the performance. It was electric. And when the actors started telling the story, I quickly fell in love with Del Shakes. Not only was the performance hilarious and moving, but the overall sense of community I experienced that evening in Rockwood Park was unparalleled.
I continued to “keep a straight face” with Del Shakes; performing in Shakespeare, Poe and Fiends; serving as a teaching artist in 2020; and eventually became a member of the Artistic Squad, which allowed me to have a deeper relationship with the organization and help with some of the artistic programming.
In one particular season planning conversation with David and the other Squad members, I came up with a very specific pitch in mind for a production. You guessed it. “Julius Caesar.”
