Compass theatre, Ickenham, March 25-28
COLONIALISM and the conflict between love and duty are the weighty themes tackled by Proscenium theatre company in a modern production of Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra.
Directed by Colin Hickman, the piece features performances from Izzie Cartwright, who is no stranger to strong female leads. Having played Henrik Ibsen's Hedda Gabler, and Viola from Twelfth Night, the actress now takes on the highly complex character of Cleopatra.
Her Antony is played by Michael Williams, who is also a seasoned performer and whose most recent productions include the part of the lawyer in The Winslow Boy.
The play will be performed in modern dress as the director was keen to keep the feeling contemporary. He says: "The themes
have lots of resonance with modern day issues of colonialism and imperialism. There is a poignant ethical message in that the selfish, single minded power of Caesar defeats the open-minded more liberal mind of Antony.
"It is about an economic power throwing over a lesser economic power which could apply to America or England during the 20th Century.
"Obviously, it is also a love story and that theme is timeless."
Colin, who tells me he has been in the business for four decades, seems highly passionate about this latest project and is keen to impart this enthusiasm.
While it may not have the glamour of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, it is an authentic piece of drama that is faithful to the text and sure to be one to look out for.
* Antony and Cleopatra, 7.45pm Wednesday March 25 to Saturday March 28 at the Compass Theatre. Call the box office on 01895 673 200.
