What's Happening?
The Q Brothers Collective, known for their innovative hip hop adaptations of classic plays, has premiered 'Rome Sweet Rome' at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. This production is a modern, hip hop-infused take on Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar,' featuring a cast that includes frequent collaborators JAX and POS. The show is directed by the collective and includes contributions from Chicago Shakespeare artistic director Edward Hall and artist Ericka Ratcliff. 'Rome Sweet Rome' is staged on the theater's main stage, offering a larger production than previous works by the Q Brothers. The play is noted for its accessible and humorous approach, making it enjoyable even for those unfamiliar with the original Shakespearean text.
Why It's Important?
The Q Brothers have been instrumental in popularizing hip hop theater, a genre that blends contemporary music styles with classic literature. Their work, including 'Rome Sweet Rome,' helps introduce Shakespeare to younger audiences who might not otherwise engage with traditional theater. By incorporating hip hop, the Q Brothers make these stories more relatable and relevant to modern audiences. This approach not only broadens the appeal of Shakespeare but also highlights the versatility and cultural significance of hip hop as a storytelling medium. The production's success could encourage other theaters to explore similar adaptations, potentially revitalizing interest in classic plays.
What's Next?
The show runs through October 19, and its reception could influence future programming at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and beyond. If successful, 'Rome Sweet Rome' might inspire additional productions that blend hip hop with classical texts, further expanding the reach of this innovative theatrical style. The Q Brothers may continue to develop new adaptations, potentially collaborating with other artists and theaters to bring their unique vision to a wider audience.
