Chicago Shakespeare’s “I, Cinna (the poet)” Is Poetry in Motion Picture

By Anna & Wes Hessel

Chicago Shakespeare at Navy Pier is looking forward to welcoming live audiences back in the fall with a production of “As You Like It.”  In the meantime, you can get your fix of The Bard virtually.  One of the ways to enjoy their great work currently is with a powerful online production of “I, Cinna (the poet)”.

The story is set during Julius Caesar’s peak of popularity and power in Shakespeare’s biographical play.  This tale takes us through the funeral of the head of the Roman Empire told through the eyes of a poet whose namesake leads to catastrophic confusion.  Set in modern day with a fabulous set, which consists of a studio apartment with a comfy oversized brown chair and an ottoman where most of the action takes place.  This realistic domestic domicile is strewn with crumpled up papers, the poet’s rejected prose; the litter increases by the crescendo of the story.

This one-man show features brilliant actor Julian Parker; his spellbinding performance is believable and leaves one on the edge of your seat.  Footage from modern actual protests make the story come alive in conjunction with sound effects of unrest in the streets.  Lights and shadows depicting activity outside the poet’s home can be seen through the blinds.  This play is interactive, so have a paper and pen ready to participate.

“I, Cinna” can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own sofa, taking you out of your comfort zone, though, with thought provoking parallels to modern issues and events.   “I, Cinna (the poet)” runs just now until May 2nd; for tickets or more information visit the company’s website, www.chicagoshakes.com.

Category: Articles, Community News, In Case You Missed It, Opinions, This and That, Uncategorized