As Julius Caesar’s strength and popularity look set to propel him to the imperial throne, those closest to him act to prevent what they fear will become a dictatorship. But the brutal assassination of one man unleashes a tide of violence that will drag thousands into a bloody civil war.

A masterpiece of political power play and manipulation, Julius Caesar examines the conflict between one man’s ambition and the good of the state.

Greg Hicks takes the role of Julius Caesar, alongside John Mackay as Cassius and Sam Troughton as Brutus. John rejoins the Company following his appearances as the Dauphin and Jack Cade as part of the acclaimed Histories Ensemble. Sam, best known for his role as Much in the BBC series Robin Hood, returns to the RSC having performed in Michael Boyd's 2000 productions of Henry VI Parts I, II & III, whilst his other credits include the role of Orlando in Sheffield Crucible Theatre's 2007 production of As You Like It. Joining them to play Mark Antony is Darrell D'Silva, whose previous credits include numerous RSC productions including Hecuba, Camino Real and Dr Faustus.

Director Lucy Bailey joins the RSC for the first time. Lucy’s recent credits include Timon of Athens and Titus Andronicus for Shakespeare’s Globe as well as work with Chichester Festival Theatre, Hampstead Theatre and the National Theatre, where her acclaimed production of Baby Doll played before transferring to the West End. Other Shakespeare productions include Twelfth Night and A Midsummer Night’s Dream for the Royal Exchange Theatre. She also directed the West Yorkshire Playhouse and West End hit The Postman Always Rings Twice.

Julius Caesar plays in repertoire from July 28th - September 4th, 2010.