The award-winning JUDITH SHAKESPEARE COMPANY NYC, founded in 1995, returns to the NYC theatre scene with "Shakespeare Unplugged" Concert Performances of Coriolanus, December 17-19 at 7:00 PM at The Spoon Theatre (38 West 38th Street). Artistic Director Joanne Zipay directs a cast of 18 in this satirical tragedy that stands as one of Shakepeare's most stunning achievements of language and verse. Suggested Donation is $13: call 212-592-1885 for reservations (strongly suggested, as seating is limited). This production is made possible by the generous support of Mr. Charles E. Bockwith.

The cast of Coriolanus includes: David Huber as Coriolanus, Jane Titus as Volumnia, Richard Lear as Aufidius, Oliver Conant as Cominius, Jan-Peter Pedross as Menenius, Amar Srivastava and Elizabeth Flax as the two Tribunes, with JSC stalwarts Laurie Bannister-Colon, Natasha Yannacanedo, Mary Hodges, Gwenyth Reitz, Sheila Joon, and newcomers Rachel Hip-Flores, Alvin Chan, Carlos Ponton, Amy Driesler, Tyrone Davis, and Mariah Hernandez. Supporting the work of the cast and director are JSC's own Dan O'Driscoll, Fight Choreographer; Elizabeth Mozer, Movement Coach; and Donna Germain, Voice Coach.

JSC productions always include live music, and this production is no exception. Coriolanus will feature an original percussion score, composed and performed live each night by Brady Miller.

"Anger's my meat" Act 4, Scene 2 - Caius Martius Coriolanus is Rome's most legendary warrior (and hottest celebrity of the moment), and is set to run for political office. But his high personal standards and class-consciousness make it impossible for him to play the political game. His unconventional behavior creates riots and confusion in the Capitol, and leads to his banishment. Outside the city walls he joins forces with his own longtime enemy - to attack Rome itself. There is only one person who may be able to prevent him from destroying the city of his birth - Volumnia, his mother. Coriolanus is a surprisingly timely play that takes on issues of: democracy in a time of war, the struggle between the rich and poor classes, the cult of celebrity, the individual's responsibility to the greater good, and society's obligation to the individual. Audiences are sure to hear many modern resonances.

"Come hear a play!" The "Shakespeare Unplugged" Concert Performance is a unique format developed by Artistic Director Joanne Zipay and the JSC company over more than a decade. It focuses on clear storytelling utilizing essential visual elements, live music, and actors on book. Catherine Lamm, reviewing 2002's Henry 4 Parts 1&2 and Henry 5 for the British Theatre Guide writes:

"…under the steady eye and ear of the Artistic Director, Joanne Zipay…the MTV concept of 'unplugged' translates here to something less than a full production but something much more than a staged reading. Ms. Zipay, for these 'concert performances,' seems extremely interested in the focusing on the text in all of its intricacies and nuances…Ms. Zipay has a passion and mastery of the text which is awe-inspiring!"

Joanne Zipay-Artistic Director and Producer

Judith Shakespeare Company - 212-592-1885
P.O. Box 60, Times Square Station, New York, NY 10036
367 Windsor Highway #409, New Windsor, NY 12553