Julius Caesar (DVD), BBC / Opus Arte, Music & Performance

Caesar returns from war, all-conquering, but mutiny is rumbling through the corridors of power. Angus Jackson directs Shakespeare's epic political tragedy, as the race to claim the empire spirals out of control. "Julius Caesar is helmed by Angus Jackson - and he's brought something with him that delivers a spark of new fire in the air. The raw power of it's delivery and the spectacle of this conspiratorial tragedy make it so much more than an invocation of Trumpian machinations. Robert Innes Hopkins's magisterial set evokes imperialism at it's grandest and functions brilliantly as both the public face of Rome and the crumbling ruins outside it's walls. But it is enhanced by the sensitive and articulate lighting of Tim Mitchell, the sound design of Carolyn Dowling and the subtle, evocative music of Mira Calix. A large cast of extras creating heaps of atmosphere. At the heart of the show is a triumvirate of excellent performances... The laurel wreaths really belong to James Corrigan, Alex Waldmann and Martin Hutson as Mark Antony, Brutus and Cassius respectively. All rising young stars of the RSC, this trio spar and spark off each other with volatility, energy and real commitment, and they are a joy to watch. The portents for the forthcoming season at the RSC are promising indeed." (WhatsOn Stage)