Weekly Hornet

Issue date: 10/17/07 Section: Entertainment

Thursday night, the Theatre Arts Department began its two-week run of "Julius Caesar" on a slightly unsteady foot.

The actor's nervousness was quite evident as the production began; as a result, the first two scenes came off in a jumbled and unclear flurry of events. The actors in charge of the show and setting the events to follow appeared overly excited and their speech suffered from their hyper activity.

Such an occurrence was unfortunate, but forgivable as it allowed the audience to take in the fantastic scene designs, which supported the actors. The set pieces and backdrop for the scenes were extremely professional. The usually modest Wilshire Auditorium appeared to have been transformed overnight into a completely different venue.

On stage sat a haunting, yet mystical interpretation of an ancient street in Rome, laced with classical columns topped with golden statuettes, as well as several rather foreboding buildings, which sloped across the back wall of the stage. Scenic artist Aaron Benson and his crew must be commended for their wonderfully thorough adaptation of the directors' vision.

After the initial scenes, expectations for the show certainly began to improve. James
Lester Rorick and Justin Eaton took to the stage as Brutus and Cassius, respectively. The two actors delivered commanding and hypnotic performances that most definitely did justice to Shakespeare's words.

Eaton was despicable and villainous in the role of Brutus; to put it plainly he was perfect for the part. Rorick was also an excellent choice for his role, he made the viewer disgusted with tragic decisions that Cassius makes though the course of the play, but still sympathetic to the fragility and honor of the character.

The two worked together as a seamless duo and reeled in the rest of the performers to make the previously chaotic presentation understandable.

The actors excelled during the shows culminating battle scenes as well. The fight choreography was intense and effortlessly enacted by the entire company involved.

Special accolade must be given to John Montano for his portrayal of Lepidus, a brutish, barbarian of a character. Montano adapted perfectly to the role and dominated the battle scenes. During arguably the most memorable moment of the show, Montano, fighting with no weapon, manhandled his sword wielding opponent, lifted him into the air and shouted "Mars! Guide My Fury!" above the din of the battle.

Continued...

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