Anyone else see Phyllida Lloyd’s production of Julius Caesar this weekend at St. Anne's Warehouse in Brooklyn? I thought it was very special. The actors were wonderful. Special mention to Frances Barber as Caesar and Jenny Jules as Cassius. I had never seen either of these remarkable actresses and they made me a great admirer. I hope I have the opportunity to see them again. Of course Dame Harriet Walter as Brutus was powerful, bold, and gripping. If it wasn't for such a strong ensemble you wouldn't have been able to keep your eyes off of her. She was surrounded by a group of actors that really were connected. I thought the concept was really unique, inspired and completely realized. It's must see theatre.
Updated On: 10/7/13 at 08:45 PM
I caught this production last Friday on a whim, and was so glad that I made the decision to see it. I echo all of your thoughts above - I really was blown away by the entire company. Incredibly acted, directed, and designed. Because of the concept, I feel like it could have easily fallen in the trap of becoming "gimmicky" - but it never felt that way. There are so many surprising aspects about this production, but I would hate to give anything away. I highly recommend making the trip there to experience it.
Also - I arrived an hour early and got a $20 rush ticket that was perfect - 2nd row center. A terrific view. Would love to know others thoughts on the show.
If its the full cast that were in London then you are in for a treat. Pay attention to Cush Jumbo, a real star in the making in London.
Yes. Cush Jumbo was wonderful. Her Marc Antony was beautiful, and at times heartbreaking. I am jealous I was not in London to see her play Josephine Baker.
I'm so glad it's transferred well. I saw it in London and was just blown away. I echo the sentiment that something special seems to happen, no matter what the weaknesses in concept/direction might be. And the entire company acts with such unbridled ferocity, it's really thrilling.
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/29/12
Cush Jumbo was amazing, and I agree a definite star in the making. I was able to finally see this last night and even get into the opening party at Gleason's Gym! It is an intense and breathtaking production that is worth seeing again. The best Shakespeare in NYC at the moment.
Has anyone done the $20 rush one hour prior to curtain?
^ Yes - I got there a little over an hour before the show began, and was given two $20 rush seats (both in the 2nd row, right in the center). There was no line or any others that I could see purchasing them around the time I got them.
Thanks! Did you do it before opening? (I was wondering if since the reviews came out it might have gotten tougher.)
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/29/12
Broadway Legend Joined: 9/19/05
I saw it yesterday afternoon. It was very good and the cast was brilliant..
Was second row side on a TDF ticket purchased the day before.
There were people rushing and I don't think that they were students.
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/29/12
I was there yesterday for the matinee, too. The rush was definitely general and we got seats near the back of the center section. The ushers moved us to fourth row center, though, to fill any unsold seats.
The space is intimate and wherever you sit you'll have a wonderful time. We were there early to get the rush and were able to meet most of the actors in front of Brooklyn Roasting Company. Even for a two show day of this intense production they were very friendly and laid back.
Updated On: 10/20/13 at 11:21 AM
Rainbowhigh, do you know if it's 1 or 2 per person?
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/29/12
2 per person, hour before showtime.
Buy tickets page
Updated On: 10/20/13 at 02:32 PM
Thanks. I saw that on their site but it didn't specific how many per.
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/29/12
I didn't know how many per person until we went yesterday. They sold us seats in Row J but other people got better rush seats later on. We eventually moved down - the show is great if you're up close.
Updated On: 10/20/13 at 04:09 PM
I'm def going to try this this week. It sounds awesome. and I loved Mary Stuart.
Broadway Legend Joined: 12/31/69
How can Cush Jumbo play Marc Anthony? He was white and a he. She is not and a she.
Saw it tonight - for me, Jenny Jules was the standout as Cassius. Amazing acting all across the board. Dame Harriet touched my leg (by accident) and I got all swoony.
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/29/12
When I stage doored Dame Harriet said I was a bad girl. LOL
SPOILER
Were you sitting front row center?
END SPOILER
Updated On: 10/21/13 at 11:21 AM
I was! Which is THE place to sit for this play. It was neat to see the actresses filtering in and out of the coffee shop next door, before the show. And I met drag king Murray Hill on the way to the theater from the subway! Now I'm wishing I'd stage doored. I'm glad Dame Harriet was friendly!
Broadway Legend Joined: 3/29/12
They really didn't know about stagedooring when I went on Saturday! It's not something that's common in the West End. I got as many of the cast members who were outside to autograph my program, and the actress who played the Soothsayer was very chuffed and said no one has ever asked her for an autograph! Dame Harriet and Frances Barber were very sweet. I made sure to get a picture with Cush Jumbo, who is gorgeous.
Broadway Legend Joined: 9/19/05
They were very nice, hanging at Brooklyn Roasting beforehand and afterwards on Saturday
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