English theatre has been sorely missed. Not that this country has been lacking in theatrics in any way over the last three years or so, but let’s admit that the dramatics are much more enjoyable on stage than when it is played out in reality. So yes, English theatre has been missed but after catching one of the most fantastic productions at the Wendt last week, it’s with great pleasure we say that Theatre (with the capital T) is back!

It’s opening night at the Wendt; amateur theatre company StageFright&Panic is presenting ‘Julius Caesar: The Musical’ and all eyes are on them. Director Nana and producer Dishan together with their stage manager Virgie set to give Colombo the best Shakespearean play of their lives. There are, of course, a few hiccups with their grand plans – an eccentric director, an amateur cast of misfits and a lighting technician cum wannabe actor, this production of Julius Caesar is already a lot to handle. And we are just in Act 1.

Julius Caesar: The Musical is a collaboration between two of Sri Lanka’s most notable theatre companies - The Workshop Players of Colombo and StageLight&Magic. Written by Feroze Kamardeen and Directed by Surein de S. Wijeyaratne with Music Direction by Nishantha Warnakulasuriya and Choreography by Ayushka Nugaliyadda, the production unfolds in two Acts.

Act 1 gives an insight into the behind-the-scenes of an amateur theatre production while Act 2 brings the production to life, brilliantly narrated by Wilcus, Shakus and Perean, as they take you through the rise and fall of the Roman empire – all in song, of course. The production was absolutely brilliant. The collaboration between the two theatre companies was exactly what English theatre has been missing – Feroze’s witty humour and clever use of words combined together with The Workshop Players’ impeccable reputation for executing the most vivacious musicals created one of the best productions we have seen. Shakespeare is not everyone’s cup of tea but when sung in contemporary songs of every genre, everyone is a fan.

The cast was fantastic, it’s not easy to step into three roles– an actor, dancer and singer all at once, but each cast member carried their own, with both veteran and amateur actors and actresses taking to the stage. While each cast member was commendable in their own right, Mario De Soyza in his role as Julius Caesar truly stole the show for us in his powerful performance of ‘Blaze of Glory’ during his assassination - goosebumps and all from the audience. Overall, Julius Caesar: The Musical was everything we love about theatre – wit and humour balanced with raw and commanding theatrical talent.

A few from the audience at the show too had their own thoughts to add.

“The play was phenomenal! It was extremely funny, emotional and educational at the same time. From the writing of the play to the choreography, to the stage decorations; everything was so uniquely well put together. The cast and the crew exceeded my expectations. Three hours of my life well spent”

VIRANDI

“Colombo was deprived of a WSP production for a long time and this show truly delivered! Loved everything about it, from the script, music, and choreography to all production elements. Particularly loved the little anecdotes about the ‘amateur theatre scene’ and the incredible vocals both by soloists and the entire ensemble. A 10/10 production!”

KALANI

“It was a beautifully executed musical with a perfect combination of veteran and amateur actors. It’s exciting to see so much talent on stage and even more refreshing to see the actors naturally enjoy playing their parts. They definitely had me in stitches”

VINURA

“Absolutely enjoyed this fun new and upbeat take on Shakespeare – certainly nothing amateur about this theatre scene! It was a superb performance, with an array of great songs, performed to the T by amazing vocalists. Inspiring to see these professionals taking on theatre while excelling in various fields. They certainty veni, vidi, vinci- ed the crowd!”

MOKSHANA

“I went in completely blind expecting a rendition of Shakespeare's play as a musical but pre-production parts were really fun, and the contemporary songs with funny relevant lyrics were great. The play within the play was surprisingly powerful for a comedy. The performances were without a doubt phenomenal. No notes”

JOHANNS