This is certainly a major theatrical event — Cicero’s speeches, with their mixture of sarcasm and idealism, are great, but not everyone will enjoy the comic interpretation of some of these characters, and the storytelling does get a bit bogged down in the second part.
‘Has a real thrill factor’: IMPERIUM I – CONSPIRATOR – West End
First seen at the RSC last winter, Mike Poulton’s adaptation of Robert Harris’ Cicero novels have a suitably epic feel to them and, anchored by an excellent lead performance from Richard McCabe, also have a real thrill factor.
‘Remains impressively exciting & gripping’: IMPERIUM II – DICTATOR – West End
Imperium II: Dictator continues a compelling look at (Roman) politics at the Gielgud Theatre but I do feel obliged to point out just how male-heavy the piece skews.
DOCTOR FAUSTUS – RSC, Barbican Theatre
Two actors share the roles of scholar and tempter in a pacy production that brilliantly conveys joy in transgression.
DR FAUSTUS – RSC, Stratford-upon-Avon
Much of what makes The RSC great is embodied in Maria Aberg’s Doctor Faustus, now playing in Stratford’s Swan Theatre. A classic Elizabethan text that is given an invigorating and challenging interpretation and presented in a display of top-notch stagecraft. For students of modern theatre, Aberg’s show should be compulsory viewing.