World Premiere of CLEOPATRA
"Cleopatra” is an unprecedented one-woman play that explores the life of the iconic Egyptian Queen to highlight the multidimensional persona that Cleopatra embodied. The core aim of this production is not just to revere her as a figure etched in history but to reveal the woman who was celebrated for her intelligence, ruthlessness, ambition, and motherhood, despite her deeply human flaws and vulnerabilities. This nuanced portrayal of Cleopatra stands as a testament to her inherent ability to challenge societal norms, thus reshaping the narrative from a historical perspective to a feminist standpoint.
The story of Cleopatra is often one of fascination and mystery, and this production brings her story into the spotlight by capturing her remarkable qualities. She was a queen who ruled with unwavering determination and acumen, navigating a political landscape dominated by men, and yet she is equally known for her tumultuous personal life. This show aims to fuse these different aspects, providing a comprehensive portrayal beyond the stereotypical image of a seductress or ruthless monarch, highlighting her determination, wit, and charisma.
The play draws inspiration from Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra, blending his evocative language with original verse written by Joy Yvonne Jones to create a modern, relatable adaptation. The incorporation of film, projection art, and audience participation ensures that the spectators can immerse themselves in the world of ancient Egypt, complete with its splendor and grandeur, as well as its struggles and upheavals. This integration of ancient text with modern technology and contemporary discourse aims to bridge the historical gap, bringing the timeless Cleopatra to a 21st-century audience.
“I lived by my rules, and I die by my will.
Say what you feel about me, but you will never forget me.” -Joy Yvonne Jones
The endeavor of this production is not merely to revisit the past but also to reflect the challenges of the present. The protagonist, a Black woman herself, aims to juxtapose her experiences of systemic racism, objectification, and exploitation with those of Cleopatra. The intent is to use the historical figure of Cleopatra as a mirror to the experiences and prejudices Black women continue to face today. This reimagining of Cleopatra serves as a platform for exposing and challenging these stereotypes, giving the character a voice to express her complexity and humanity without fear of judgment or reproach.
"Cleopatra" is a defiant theatrical production that seeks to deconstruct traditional narratives and introduce a perspective that embraces diversity and empowerment. By combining the grandeur of Shakespearean literature with modern elements of performance, the adaptation breathes new life into the character of Cleopatra. It represents not just the transformation of a historical figure but a revolution in the theatre itself.
“Be it known that we, the greatest, are misthought
For things that others do; and when we fall,
We answer others’ merits in our name— “ -Shakespeare
The production's dynamic fusion of historical text with contemporary discourse provides a fresh, visually stunning narrative, striving to captivate audiences while inspiring a sense of empowerment. The ultimate goal is to contribute to a more inclusive and diverse theatrical landscape where complex, powerful women, particularly women of color, are celebrated rather than vilified or objectified. As such, “Cleopatra” is more than a play—it is a reclamation of narrative, a celebration of diversity, and a call for a more equitable representation in theatre.
