Experience the drama, the laughter, and the spectacle of ancient Rome!
A Play with Excerpts from the Roman Playwrights, Plautus, Seneca, and Terence
Tim Boatswain’s dramatic comedy plunges you into the 1st-century AD, exploring the chaotic world of a Roman theatre troupe on performance day, followed by a Q&A with Tim covering all things related to Roman history.
Staged at the very site where Romans once cheered, this unique production lets you witness the hilarious backstage battles between a pompous tragedian, a farcical comedian, and a clever actress. As their manager desperately tries to maintain order, the company performs a lively medley of excerpts from Rome’s greatest playwrights.
Featuring scenes from:
Plautus: The ridiculous boasts of The Braggart Soldier and the frantic greed of The Pot of Gold.
Seneca: The terrifying power of Medea’s rage and dark magic from his classic tragedy.
Terence: The witty family debate and moral dilemmas of The Brothers.
Blending comedy and tragedy with the authentic backdrop of the only fully exposed Roman theatre in Britain, this is a theatrical event like no other. Will the show go on?
Come and see for yourself!
Cast
Tim Boatswain – THE NARRATOR / THE WRITER
The bridge between the ancient world and the modern audience. Witty, knowledgeable, mildly anxious.
Alice Croot – TITUS
The pompous lead actor. Specialises in high tragedy, takes himself far too seriously, convinced he is Rome’s greatest living actor.
Will Kirkham – LUCIUS
The comedic actor. Specialises in Plautine farce, incapable of staying on script, loves ad-libbing and physical comedy.
Emma Wright – JULIA
A brilliant, versatile actress. Plays both male and female roles with sharp intellect, often the only voice of reason.
David Widdowson – QUINTUS
The harried Theatre Manager. Stressed, practical, rapidly losing control of his cast and his sanity.
Creative
Scott Le Crass – Director
Maddie Powell – Costumes
Ollie Welland – Sound & Lights
Sophie Cullen – Stage Manager