Shakespeare’s epic tale of passion, power, and empire returns to the Melbourne stage for the first time in almost 10 years!
Melbourne Shakespeare Company is proud to present Shakespeare’s Antony and Cleopatra, directed by multi–award-winning artist Sonya Suares in a production that puts Cleopatra front and centre!
“For centuries this play has been known as Antony and Cleopatra, but Sonya understands it belongs just as much to Cleopatra. She is one of Shakespeare’s most complex, intelligent and charismatic women. By putting Cleopatra first, we’re inviting audiences to see the story through her lens” explains Artistic Director Jennifer Sarah Dean.
Following a string of acclaimed, sold-out seasons including Othello (2025), and Hamlet (2024) and Julius Caesar (2023), the company returns with a bold new production of this rarely performed epic.
Following an open casting call that attracted hundreds of submissions, the production brings together some of Melbourne’s most sought-after performers including Akina Edmonds (HAMILTON) as Cleopatra, Louis Lucente (MS FISHER’S MODERN MURDER MYSTERIES) as Antony, Tsungirai Wachenuka (SLAP.BANG.KISS) as Charmian, and Jennifer Vuletic (LOOKING FOR ALIBRANDI) as Agrippa.
Sonya’s previous directorial credits include The Lucky Country, Nora: A Doll’s House, and Sweeney Todd. Sonya is also the founder of Watch This whose productions have accrued thirty-one Green Room Award nominations and seven wins.
This production blends sharp contemporary direction with Shakespeare’s rich language, offering audiences a visceral and compelling night of theatre that should not be missed!
August 20 – September 13
For bookings visit melbourneshakespeare.com
