UKIAH, Calif. – “Julius Caesar,” a searing political thriller with contemporary implications, will run March 16 to 25 in Mendocino College’s Center Theatre on the Ukiah Campus.

According to director Reid Edelman, “This is one of Shakespeare’s most powerful and riveting tragedies. In our production, we explore the cycles of political warfare and violence that have continued to plague humanity through the ages. It is one of Shakespeare’s most accessible and gripping plays.”

The play opens as Julius Caesar is returning from war, all-conquering and hugely popular with the citizenry, but mutiny is brewing in the senate.

Featuring a soothsayer, a ghost and professionally choreographed stage combat, this Shakespeare play will appeal to audiences ages 12 and older.

The cast of 17 fantastic local performers includes students in the college’s conservatory cohort group, and elaborate costumes and scenery, all created by students.

The play, featuring some of Shakespeare’s greatest poetry and characters, examines the nature of friendship and loyalty in politically dangerous times.

Performances will run for two weekends only. Show times are 7:30 p.m. March 16, March 17, March 22, March 23 and March 24, and 2 p.m. March 25.

Tickets are $20 per person, $15 for students and seniors.

There will be a special discount show on Thursday, March 22, with all tickets $10.

Advance tickets are available at the Mendocino College Bookstore, the Mendocino Book Company in Ukiah and online at www.ArtsMendocino.org.

For information, call 707-468-3172 or visit http://www.mendocino.edu/the-arts/theatre.