PROMPT
Construct a detailed critique of the 2012 Donmar Warehouse production of JULIUS CAESAR
• THEME and ARTISTIC OBJECTIVE
o Examine the relationship between the play's Themes and the production's Artistic Objective.
Identify and examine the play’s Themes.
What are the ideas that are at the heart of the authors' script?
How do the Themes relate to the Artistic Objective of THIS production?
What issue or idea do the artists working on this production seem to want YOU, as a member of the audience, to focus on?
• DIRECTION
o Identify the Production Concept and explore how it works toward achieving the Artistic Objective.
o How does the director cast the roles to support/illuminate the Production Concept?
o How does the director block the performers to support/illuminate the Production Concept?
• DESIGN
o Critique EACH of the four key design disciplines:
Scenic Design
Costume Design
Lighting Design
Sound Design
How do EACH of these designs support/illuminate the Production Concept?
Support your conclusions by addressing topics such as:
The objectives of each design discipline
The use of realistic and non-realistic techniques
• PERFORMANCE
o Focus on the performance of a SINGLE actor, identifying the actor by their real name and the character they play.
What are some of the challenges of playing this role?
Consider elements such as complex language, challenging concepts or style, demanding emotional journey, arduous vocal or physical work, etc.
How does the actor’s performance reflect or support the Production Concept?
• EVALUATION
o Conclude the critique with your educated and informed response to the production.
Summarize the major points from your critique.
Do you think the production achieved its Artistic Objective?
Did you find value in the choice of Production Concept and appreciate its execution?
• WORKS CITED
o If you drew upon information learned from an outside source, please provide an informal list under this heading.
Content taken from Drama 1 Canvas modules may be listed like this:
Supplement 1.1
DT+ Interview: "Julius Caesar: Walk Like a Man"
Critique of the 2012 Donmar Warehouse Production of JULIUS CAESAR
In the 2012 production of Julius Caesar at the Donmar Warehouse, directed by Phyllida Lloyd, the adaptation of Shakespeare's classic play into a women's prison setting brought forth a powerful exploration of themes such as power, betrayal, and political ambition. The artistic objective of this production was to highlight the timeless relevance of these themes by portraying them through the lens of a contemporary and confined world. The central idea that the artists wanted the audience to focus on was the nature of authority and the thin line between freedom and captivity.
Production Concept and Direction
The production concept of setting the play within a women's prison was a bold and innovative choice. It worked effectively towards achieving the artistic objective by drawing parallels between the power struggles within the prison walls and those in the political arena. The director's casting of women in traditionally male roles emphasized the universality of the themes and challenged traditional gender norms. The blocking of performers within the confined space of the prison added intensity and claustrophobia, amplifying the tension within the relationships.
Design
Scenic Design
The scenic design in this production utilized sparse and stark elements to reflect the stark reality of life within a prison. The use of metal bars and minimal furniture emphasized the oppressive nature of confinement, reinforcing the themes of power and control.
Costume Design
The costume design played a crucial role in distinguishing characters and highlighting their individual traits. The use of prison uniforms for all characters created a sense of equality within the hierarchy while also symbolizing the loss of personal freedom.
Lighting Design
The lighting design skillfully created contrasts between light and shadow, symbolizing the duality of power and vulnerability. The harsh lighting in interrogation scenes heightened the sense of scrutiny and surveillance, underscoring the themes of betrayal and manipulation.
Sound Design
The sound design incorporated elements such as echoing footsteps, distant voices, and slamming doors to evoke the oppressive atmosphere of a prison. These auditory cues added depth to the setting and enhanced the emotional impact of key moments in the play.
Performance
One standout performance in this production was Harriet Walter as Brutus. Playing Brutus presented various challenges, including navigating the character's internal conflict between loyalty to Caesar and devotion to the Republic. Walter's portrayal captured Brutus's moral dilemmas with nuance, conveying a sense of gravitas and vulnerability. Her performance supported the production concept by exemplifying the struggle for integrity and the consequences of difficult choices.
Evaluation
In conclusion,
the 2012 Donmar Warehouse production of Julius Caesar successfully achieved its artistic objective of exploring themes of power and betrayal within a contemporary context. The production concept provided a fresh perspective on Shakespeare's work, engaging audiences with its relevance and social commentary. The choice of setting and direction, supported by strong performances and design elements, contributed to a compelling and thought-provoking theatrical experience.
Overall, this production offered a compelling reimagining of Julius Caesar that resonated with modern audiences while staying true to the timeless themes of Shakespeare's original work.
Works Cited:
- Supplement 1.1
- DT+ Interview: "Julius Caesar: Walk Like a Man"