The Tragedy of Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare
June 2–July 5, 2026 | FREE FOR ALL!
In The Tragedy of Julius Caesar, Shakespeare explores the fragile line between loyalty and ambition, patriotism and betrayal. When a group of senators moves to stop a powerful leader they fear may become a tyrant, their decision unleashes consequences far beyond what they imagined. What begins as an act meant to save a republic instead fractures alliances, ignites public fury, and sends a nation spiraling toward chaos. A gripping examination of power, persuasion, and responsibility, The Tragedy of Julius Caesar remains a play for now.
Rome to Right Now:
Announcing Civics Programming with Civics is Sexy
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, New York Classical Theatre is pairing its 2026 production of The Tragedy of Julius Caesar with a season of civics programming exploring questions about power, persuasion, and democracy. In partnership with Civics is Sexy, this initiative will invite audiences to reflect on the play’s themes through student programs, public conversations, family events, and open rehearsals in Central Park—creating space to explore how rhetoric, leadership, and political violence have shaped republics from ancient Rome to the present day. Click here to learn more!
WHO WE ARE
New York Classical Theatre creates and reinvigorates audiences for the theatre by presenting free productions of popular and forgotten classical plays in public spaces throughout New York City. We are also committed to developing and producing new plays by living playwrights that enrich and expand our understanding of what defines a classic.
MAY 13, 2026
Next on Vino & Verse
The Tragedy of Julius Caesar
with Prof. Sid Ray
In anticipation of our Summer 2026 production, Professor Sid Ray, who crafts NY Classical’s dramaturgy each season, will lead a compelling deep dive into Julius Caesar. Blending scholarship with theatrical insight, Professor Ray will illuminate the play’s political tensions, moral dilemmas, and enduring questions about democracy, loyalty, and public life. Whether you know the play well or are encountering it anew, this evening will sharpen your understanding and heighten your excitement for Caesar in the park.
NEW VISIONS:
NY Classical Announces Selections for New Visions Cycle 2 Following Nearly 400 National Submissions
FOUR NEW PLAYS REIMAGINING CLASSICAL WORKS SELECTED FOR DEVELOPMENT THROUGHNY CLASSICAL’S FLAGSHIP PLAYWRITING INITIATIVE
New York, NY — New York Classical Theatre has announced the four selections for Cycle 2 of New Visions, its play development program supporting new works inspired by classical texts. Selected from nearly 400 submissions from across the United States, these plays will move forward in a multi-phase development process culminating in public readings and continued artistic development.