JOHNSON CITY (November 12, 2012) – A modern adaptation of one of William Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies is taking the stage at East Tennessee State University during this post-election season.

“Caesar 2012” will be presented Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 15-17, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 18, at 2 p.m. at the Bud Frank Theatre, located on the lower level of Gilbreath Hall.

Set in present day, “Caesar 2012” tells the story of a group of conspirators – some motivated by a love of their country and others by spiteful intentions – and their assassination plot against Roman dictator Julius Caesar.

“In this version there are no togas, sandals or chariots,” said Herb Parker, ETSU associate professor who also wrote the adaptation. “Instead, the viewer will find flat screen televisions, laptops, cell phones, business suits and automatic weapons.

“In this version the Soothsayer is an opinionated radio personality and the character of Cassius is now a head-strong, ambitious female politician in the midst of a tempestuous affair with the noble Brutus. But what are constant are Shakespeare’s words and the famous speeches, all still intact. This version does not seek to re-write Shakespeare, but rather it hopes to make it clear just how close his world is to ours of today.”

Parker is directing “Caesar 2012,” which features Hunter Roberts as Julius Caesar, Josh Holley as Marcus Brutus, Grey Erin Renee as Cassius, Jeremiah Bales as Mark Antony, and Clayton Van Huss as the Soothsayer, along with Brock Cooley, Trenton Fines, Zach Starnes, Charles Schill, Travis Welch, Justin Aubon, Everett Tarleton, Jordan Mullins, Myasha Dunham, Jessica Womack, and Lauren Stephens.

ETSU’s Delbert Hall is set designer, and Melissa Shafer is the lighting designer.

Tickets are $7 for students and $15 for general admission and can be reserved by calling (423) 439-7576 or emailing theatre@etsu.edu. Those needing to request special accommodations for persons with disabilities should use that same number.