Caligula

Sewell Barn Theatre staging Caligula

Caligula
at the Sewell Barn Theatre

Review published in Eastern Daily Press, 11 April 2015

Generally held to be from Albert Camus’ ‘absurd phase’ of philosophical thinking, Caligula demonstrates a disconnection between aspiration and reality while condemning dictatorship/power but not in an agit-prop way.

It’s a thoughtful and considered treatment currently being presented in the Sewell Barn’s intimate closeness as we watch aghast as the all-powerful, God-like Roman emperor Caligula disintegrates.

Joe Darbyshire captures escalating madness underpinned with a terrifying logic in a consummate performance, as he murders at whim – ‘it’s no more immoral to steal openly than to inflict taxes on people.’

He is ably supported by terrified ‘yes’ men who finally fight back from fear and humiliation while his sinister sidekick (David White) and his aging mistress (Ginny Porteous) bring different shades to the intense drama.

In his programme notes director David Green says, ‘We have to reinvent the character of Caligula each time this play is staged, because this play is written for the present, not for the past.’

It’s essential viewing in this election season and is a timely reminder that we are all fallible; and even the greatest cannot ‘possess the moon.’