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AUSTIN SHAKESPEARE PRESENTS

JULIUS CAESAR

MAY 15 - 25 | 8:00 P.M. | ZILKER HILLSIDE THEATRE

Austin Shakespeare is bringing a fierce and fearless production of JULIUS CAESAR to Zilker Hillside Theatre this spring, running May 15–25. In a dynamic twist on Shakespeare’s gripping political drama, most of the conspirators will be played by women, turning the timeless tale of ambition, betrayal, and revolution on its head.

Celebrating 40 years of bold performances, Austin Shakespeare continues its tradition of Free Shakespeare in Zilker Park, inviting Austinites of all ages to experience world-class theater under the stars. Audience members are encouraged to pack a picnic and settle in for an unforgettable night of drama, poetry and power plays.

“We are excited to challenge expectations with this production,” says Ann Ciccolella, Artistic Director of Austin Shakespeare. “By casting women in most of the roles except Caesar himself, we hope create a fascinating tension that re-envisions the story’s power structures while showcasing Shakespeare’s brilliant text.”

Audiences can expect stunning performances, a vivid outdoor setting, and a production that speaks directly to today’s political and cultural moment—all while honoring the rich language and emotional depth of the Bard’s original.

Whether you’re a lifelong Shakespeare lover or a first-time theatergoer, JULIUS CAESAR at Zilker Hillside Theatre promises an evening of powerful storytelling in one of Austin’s most iconic settings.

The cast of JULIUS CAESAR features five Equity actors: newly returned to Austin Rachel Hacker as Brutus, Babs George as Cassius, Meredith O’Brien as Mark Antony, Amani Dorn as Octavius and guest artist Ray Schultz as Caesar. Other Austin Shakespeare alumni actors include: Sue Breland as the Soothsayer, Aliya Qureshi as Calpurnia, Emily Green as Portia, Darby Williams as Cinna. From the recent staged reading at the Austin Jewish Community Center are: Nick Gilley and Christa Sablic, and from the recent Mahabharata Tales production is Divya Goruganthu. Young Shakespeare actor Gabriel Cruz will join the professional company for the first time as Artemidorus. New to the company are Katie Browne and Jake Olds. Set and light design is by Patrick Anthony; costume design is by Cecilia Gay and Property design is by Stephanie Schmid. 

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Event Details

• Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025 - Sunday, May 25, 2025
• Time: 8:00 P.M.
• Venue: Zilker Hillside Theatre
• Website: https://www.austinshakespeare.org/our-season

Ticket Information

• Cost: Free

Presenter Details

• Name: Austin Shakespeare

Austin Shakespeare began in 1984 with Free Shakespeare in Zilker Park and has been a staple in Austin theater since. Originally subsidized by the City of Austin, it quickly developed its own funding sources early on, establishing itself as one of the premier theater companies in central Texas.

In addition to Free Shakespeare in the Park, the company presents Shakespeare and other classic works along with contemporary playwrights whose work reflects classical sensibilities at the Rollins Theater of The Long Center and The Curtain Theater (one of only a dozen Elizabethan replicas in the United States).

Currently, the company produces 3 to 4 annual productions under contract with Equity as well as non-union productions throughout the season. This includes fully-produced staged readings, an annual collaboration with The Austin Chamber Music Festival, collaborations with other arts organizations and artists locally and nationally. The company promotes a policy of inclusion and diversity in all sectors of company life.

Venue Details