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The legendary tale of Antony and Cleopatra, set against the backdrop of the Roman Empire’s ambitions, has been reimagined in a unique wordless format by Synetic Theater. This adaptation, directed by Paata Tsikurishvili, immerses the audience in a world where physicality takes precedence over dialogue, evoking powerful emotions through movement and visual storytelling.
This production runs until January 25 at the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C. It melds historical drama with the intimate dynamics of romance, showcasing how personal relationships can be influenced by broader geopolitical conflicts.
Visual storytelling and thematic depth
From the outset, the performance captures attention with a dramatic naval scene. The character of Antony, portrayed by Vato Tsikurishvili, embodies the ship’s aggression, his body positioned to mirror the vessel’s forward thrust. This striking imagery serves as a metaphor for the entangled fates of the characters, illustrating how personal desires can become interwoven with the ambitions of nations.
As the narrative unfolds, the audience witnesses other captivating moments, such as conspirators donning bright red gloves, signaling their treacherous intentions toward Caesar, played by Tony Amante. The choreography transforms the stage into a dynamic map of the Mediterranean, with performers shifting positions to create a visual representation of the coastline, reminiscent of an intricate dance routine.
Battle sequences and character dynamics
At the heart of this production lies a series of visceral battle scenes, where movement and choreography come together to convey the intensity of warfare. The cast displays remarkable agility as they leap, kick, and spin, with each clash of weapons igniting sparks that reflect the passion and chaos of the conflict. Even Cleopatra, enacted by Irina Kavsadze, showcases her strength by engaging in combat with Antony, a moment that highlights the complexities of their relationship.
While the physicality of the performance is undeniable, one aspect that may leave some audience members yearning is the narrative clarity. The adaptation integrates various backstories, including Cleopatra’s rivalry with her brother Ptolemy, which, while enriching the context, can detract from the central love story. Unlike Shakespeare’s original text, where dialogue serves to anchor the characters’ motivations, this wordless rendition sometimes struggles to maintain a cohesive narrative thread.
The allure of Egyptian mystique and humor
The portrayal of Egypt in this adaptation leans into an exoticized interpretation, with characters like Mardian, Cleopatra’s servant, dressed in attire reminiscent of ancient deities. This mystical presence adds an otherworldly dimension to the performance, though it risks overshadowing the human elements of the story. At times, Mardian’s actions, such as executing a slow-moving magic trick, can feel disconnected from the central narrative of love and betrayal.
Yet, amidst the heavy themes of lust and ambition, moments of levity emerge. A comedic exchange involving Octavian, played by Philip Fletcher, and a mock Cleopatra, portrayed by Maryam Najafzada, injects humor into the proceedings. Their playful antics provide a refreshing contrast to the overarching tension, reminding the audience of the absurdity that often accompanies power struggles.
Choreography and design elements
The production’s choreography, expertly crafted by Irina Tsikurishvili, oscillates between passionate romance and frenetic energy, showcasing Antony’s longing through intricate movements. The visual design, featuring a pyramidal set reminiscent of a dystopian metropolis, enhances the thematic contrasts between the characters’ personal ambitions and the broader imperial narrative.
Despite its strengths, some may find that the reliance on abstract symbolism—such as a fractured map or a half-split throne—detracts from the storytelling. However, the visual spectacle remains engaging, with creative lighting and sound design by Koki Lortkipanidze and Colin K Bills respectively, further enriching the audience’s experience.
This production runs until January 25 at the Shakespeare Theatre Company in Washington, D.C. It melds historical drama with the intimate dynamics of romance, showcasing how personal relationships can be influenced by broader geopolitical conflicts.0