Theatre & Dance to present ‘Julius Caesar’

The Department of Theatre & Dance will present Shakespeare’s epic tragedy “Julius Caesar” Feb. 28 through March 2 in the Mainstage theater in the Center for the Arts, North Campus.

Performance are at 7:30 p.m. March 1 and March 2. A special school-time performance will take place on Feb. 28.

Caesar is a conquering hero and a respected leader who has brought glory to Rome. His ascent to power and the godlike status he achieves in the eyes of his citizens spark dissent among Roman senators who fear for the future of the republic. The senators’ choices launch Rome into a bloody war, the outcome of which will shape its future for generations.    

The UB production of “Julius Caesar” will allow audiences to view the political turmoil of the historic play through a contemporary lens, according to director Danielle Rosvally, assistant professor of theatre and dance. “The time is here, and the place is now. A college reading group comes together to read this play, and glean from it what they can about its message,” Rosvally says. 

“Shakespeare has been a voice in the darkness for generations — performed by the disenfranchised the world over in moments of political and social strife. So here, at UB, my production witnesses students engaging with this tradition and seeking wisdom in Shakespeare’s words.”

Rosvally calls “Julius Caesar” a very timely piece,” pointing to the 2017 production in New York’s Central Park in which the character of Julius Caesar was dressed to resemble President Trump. “It’s a piece,” she says, “that makes us examine government and governance, our role as citizens, and how we impact the world around us.”

The play, she says, urges viewers to ask such questions as, what responsibility do we have when government doesn’t work the way it should? And how can we act reasonably, ethically and soundly in moments of extreme political strife?” 

Through UB’s production of “Julius Caesar,” Rosvally says she hopes audiences will consider American and global history, and reflect on these moments.

The cast of “Julius Caesar” features UB students Jill Anderson, Emily Bassett, Anthony DeFeo, Mary DiCanio, Regan Dolan, Cassie Elkin, Taylor Hall, Sydne Jackson, Timiyah Love, Lauren Masterpolo, Sawyer Matheny, Campbell McDade Clay, Michaela Pascuzzi, Anna Seidl, Louie Visone and Gemini Zajac.

Tickets are $20 for general admission and $10 for students and seniors, and are available at the Center for the Arts box office or via the CFA website. For general information call (716) 645-6897.