The lights of the Black Box Theatre fell, and a hush settled. But instead of trumpets, the thrumming, modern beat of Labrinth’s “Mount Everest” filled the theater. Through a haze of colorful light, Julius Caesar strode forth, an easygoing confidence coursing through his veins. As his fawning senators entered from the sides, they settled by the stage’s edge. In this production, you are not just a watcher; you are a Roman.
This is the world of NIU School of Theatre and Dance’s production of Shakespeare’s tragedy, “Julius Caesar.” Directed by Kay Martinovich, the play started its run for its final weekend from Oct. 16 to 18 in the Black Box Theatre.
The production reimagines the classic tale of betrayal, exploring themes of power and loyalty. A powerful casting choice drives this modern take: the lead roles of Marcus Brutus and Caius Cassius are played by women.
“I am interested in offering women the opportunity to play some of the Bard’s most iconic roles,” director Kay Martinovich wrote in her program note. “There is power in representation… and in reimagining who gets to wield ‘power’ onstage.”
Casting Kayla Crispino as Brutus and Sophia Dimond as Cassius proved to be a brilliant move. Their performances made the play’s core conflicts over honor, persuasion and duty feel real and very relevant.
The rest of the actors are masters of their craft. Antonio Horn’s Caesar carried an easygoing confidence that made his eventual fall all the more jarring. As Brutus, Crispino commanded the stage, her strong voice carried the gravity of her situation. She is matched by Dimond’s riveting performance as Cassius, and the chemistry between them as stage counterparts is electric, making the entire mutiny they share feel alive.
Kylee Fruin’s portrayal of Portia delivers an emotional performance, her range capturing the heartbreaking sadness that unfolds beyond the political drama. The whiplash from moments of comedy to sorrow keeps the audience enthralled throughout the almost two-hour performance.
With the audience seated just feet from the stage of three sides, the intimate setting of the theater forged a direct connection with the characters. Scenic designers Emery Foster and Max Garcia have created a world that feels both grand and self-contained. The players often broke the fourth wall, their gazes and words pierced the audience, making us a part of the whispers and plots.
As each moment of the drama unfolded, gasps and murmurs echoed through the crowd. The energy was infectious, a shared experience of suspense and sorrow throughout the highs and lows of the play. (And to the two women sitting behind me who commented on the show as if it were a TV drama – please, commentate every Shakespeare play from now on.)
Tickets are available for purchase online. NIU students can attend for free by reserving tickets in advance.
In the spirit of Shakespeare himself, I urge you: get thee to the theater, lest you miss a most masterful tragedy.
