The Wichita State University School of Performing Arts Theatre presents William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” the classic tragedy that follows the cycle of power in Rome, where order is paramount but dictatorship is intolerable. The production is showing at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 16-18, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, in Wilner Auditorium.
“Julius Caesar,” one of Shakespeare’s best-known works, depicts an idealistic Rome that is rife with power politics and jealousy. Caesar’s popularity with the people is causing leading senators, Cassius and Brutus, to be suspicious that an all-powerful Caesar will lead to a loss of freedom. The conspiracy grows and culminates with Caesar’s assassination on the prophesied “Ides of March.” His death, along with Marc Antony’s manipulation of the masses, results in a destructive civil war.
Shakespeare based his tragedy on actual Roman history to create his play. Although the work is named for him, “Julius Caesar” is a minor character, as the core of the action follows Brutus’ struggle to decide whether to protect his friend or end Caesar’s anticipated tyranny.
The show is directed by Bret Jones, program director of theatre, with students Trevor Comstock serving as assistant director, Megan Hanson as stage manager and Remy Lierz as assistant stage manager.
The cast includes Trevor Comstock, Steffan Rowe, Robert Thomas, Kyle Dilley, Michael Allen, Esme Banuelos, Leah Heathcote, Tabetha Levy, Jenny Hughes, Nimrah Khan, Veneise Razo, Adrianna Somerville, Brendan Tyler, Krista Nelson, Mel Calvery, Rian Helgason and Allison Williams.
Wichita State Theatre student designers are Emmy Guilter (costumes), Alyce Murphy (lights) and Hayley Worth (sound).
Tickets for the event are on sale now at the Fine Arts Box Office from noon-5 p.m. weekdays in the lobby of Duerksen Fine Arts Center. Contact the box office at 316-978-3233. Tickets may also be purchased online at wichita.edu/fineartsboxoffice. General admission is $10; tickets for military, senior citizens, faculty and staff are $8 or $6 for students. Fine arts events are always free for WSU students with ID.
“Julius Caesar” is rated PG-13.
