To celebrate our Sydney season of Julius Caesar, on Monday 30 March we were joined by our wonderful Stranger Companies Donor Circle, supporters, and Julius Caesar actors Ruby Maishman and Septimus Caton for a discussion with Resident Artist in Education, Emily Edwards, on the theme Julius Caesar & the Art of Persuasion.
The evening was lively, with insightful conversation set against the backdrop of a sunset over Sydney Harbour.
A snapshot of the discussion:
We began by examining the historical accuracy of the play and were intrigued to learn what was factual and what had been shaped for dramaturgical effect.
We then explored how Shakespeare uses rhetoric as a form of political power in Julius Caesar, reflecting on who influences us as audience members and how that influence may shift throughout the play.
“The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, / But in ourselves, that we are underlings”
— Cassius, Act 1, Scene 2
This prompted discussion on the relationship between fate and choice within the play, and more specifically, a deeper dive into the ways Caesar himself is complicit in the politics of perception that ultimately lead to his downfall.
Finally, we considered why the interpersonal dramas of Caesar’s Rome continue to resonate with contemporary audiences, including a discussion of how the wives and female characters often serve as vessels of wisdom.
The event closed with an update from Hearts In A Row Teaching Artist Pollyanna, who spoke to the direct impact of Stranger Companies membership contributions in enabling access to Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar through a recent workshop with Midnight Feast, a not-for-profit theatre company that champions artists with high support needs, providing a platform to showcase their talents and embark on fulfilling professional journeys.
An insightful evening indeed, with rich ideas, new connections, and thoughts to ponder long after the event.
Thank you to everyone who attended!
What is Stranger Companies?
Bell Shakespeare’s donor circle, Stranger Companies, is for theatre supporters who seek new connections and deeper conversations. Throughout the year, we convene at a salon-style events, inspired by current Bell Shakespeare productions, to discuss the play’s key themes and their significance in modern times. These casual events encourage everyone to ask questions and contribute to the conversation over drinks and charcuterie boards.
How to join Stranger Companies
If you would like to become a member of this donor circle, we invite you to make a contribution of $1,500 per year, which includes a tax-deductible donation of $1,000.
Your donation enables Bell Shakespeare’s community access program, Hearts In A Row, which provides marginalised communities and schools with a live theatre experience—often their first—at no cost.
If you have any questions, please get in touch with our Philanthropy Executive, Jessie Lancaster jessiel@bellshakespeare.com.au
