This production aims to celebrate Cleopatra as a multifaceted character, showcasing her remarkable qualities as a flawed yet captivating queen, an intelligent and ambitious leader, and a fierce mother. Focusing on her complexities and challenging societal expectations, I aim to provide a fresh and empowering perspective on this iconic historical figure.
The heart of this production lies in combining Shakespeare's original text with my original poetry, adding spice and relevance to Cleopatra's story. This adaptation will also include film and projection art to assist in bringing life to the highs and lows of Cleopatra in a modern way. As a Black woman, I am familiar with being villainized for ambition, sexualized because of my body, and manipulated for the success of others, I aim to infuse this adaptation with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Black women in society. Through this production, we will break barriers and challenge stereotypes, allowing Cleopatra to express herself fully, flaws and all, without shame.
"Cleopatra" aims to be a revolutionary and empowering production that challenges traditional narratives, embraces diversity, and celebrates the strength and complexity of Cleopatra as a Black woman. By combining Shakespeare's text with original poetry and incorporating unique and grand design elements, this adaptation will provide a fresh perspective on an iconic historical figure while creating an immersive and visually stunning theatrical experience. We believe that this production has the potential to captivate audiences, inspire empowerment, and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse theatrical landscape.