Julius Caesar

Part of L.A. Theatre Works' The Play's the Thing series, this production is a stellar example of the ensemble's talent. There's a perfect balance between human voice and background music/sound effects. The all-American cast provides a fresh and equally professional approach to this classic, which is typically performed by British actors. In addition, the production quality is excellent; the depth of the "stage" seems apparent as audiences hear actors at different volume levels, which helps to suggest their proximity to the main character in each scene. Overall, JULIUS CAESAR is a wonderful addition to any audio theater library. R.A.P. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine


Stacy Keach's quietly sonorous voice is perfectly suited to the introspective Brutus in this fine full-cast recording. John de Lancie, too, is excellent as Cassius, though Richard Dreyfuss is less convincing in the role of Antony. He doesn't quite capture the restrained outrage of Caesar's most loyal friend, or the irony of his famous funeral oration. At times, it sounds as though the director has rushed the actors in this recording, and the many crowd scenes are a bit awkward, sounding more like scenes of football fans than plebeians. Overall, though, this recording can't help but succeed on the strength of its all-star cast. D.B. (c) AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine


With a few useful sound effects to set the stage--a fanfare of trumpets, the clash of swords or thunder--and a few sections summarized to ease the transition from stage to radio, this CBC production is quite accessible. Early on, the production is somewhat muted; lines are delivered more quietly, and less anxiously, than one might expect when murder and portents are being discussed. However, the later sections are striking. The complex crowd scenes come through clearly, and Mark Anthony's famous "Friends, Romans, countrymen" speech at Caesar's funeral is delivered in rich tones that wring from it every ounce of irony and drama. G.T.B. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine