Coppin Repertory Theatre Brings Shakespeare's Julius Caesar to Mainstage Nov. 5–15
BALTIMORE — Coppin Repertory Theatre will present William Shakespeare's political tragedy Julius Caesar for the first time in the university's nearly 60-year theater history. The production, part of Coppin's Resistance Season, runs November 5–15 at the James Weldon Johnson Auditorium on the campus of Coppin State University.
Directed by Coppin State theater professor Josh Wilder, the production features a modern verse translation by Shishir Kurup and offers a fresh interpretation of Shakespeare's classic through minimalist stage design and an immersive theatrical experience that extends throughout the auditorium.
“At Coppin, we dip all classical texts in chocolate!” Wilder said. “The design is minimal, and the actors will be using the entire James Weldon Johnson auditorium to tell this story as if we were at Shakespeare’s Globe.”
Set in ancient Rome, Julius Caesar follows the political turmoil surrounding the rise and assassination of the Roman leader. As concerns grow over Caesar's expanding power, Brutus finds himself torn between personal loyalty and his responsibility to the Roman Republic. His decision to join a conspiracy against Caesar sets off a struggle for power that threatens the future of Rome.
The production explores enduring questions about leadership, democracy, loyalty, and the consequences of political ambition, themes that remain relevant in contemporary society.
The inspiration for the production emerged from Coppin's 2024 staging of Antigone, where Wilder was impressed by the student actors' ability to interpret and perform classical texts. Building on that experience, the theater program explored Shakespeare's work more deeply, drawing inspiration from a visit to Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London.
Performance Schedule
Performances will take place over two consecutive weekends at the James Weldon Johnson Auditorium, 2500 W. North Ave., Baltimore, MD 21216.
Wednesday, November 4: 7 p.m. (preview performance)
Thursday and Friday, November 5–6 and 12–13: 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, November 7–8 and 14–15: 3 p.m.
Ticket Information
General admission tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $15 for non-Coppin students with valid identification. Admission is free for Coppin State students with a valid student ID.
Special group rates of $10 per person are available for middle and high school groups.
Tickets are available through Coppin Repertory Theatre's online ticketing page.
For additional information, group or reservations contact Dr. Garey A. Hyatt at 410-951-3369 or ghyatt@coppin.edu.
