
Classic Theatre Reimagined as an Apocalyptic Vision
By: MaryAnn DiPietro
The timeless Shakespearean tragedy is transformed into a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of a fictitious apocalypse in The Larking House’s latest offering. With the holidays behind us and winter fast approaching, Matthew Hayashi’s adaptation promises a theatre-going experience that feels profoundly resonant.
Matthew Hayashi, a dedicated member of the theatre community since his high school days, brings a wealth of experience and passion to The Larking House. A graduate of California State University, Fullerton, with a BA in Theatre, Hayashi has been honing his craft since 2020-- the same year he co-founded The Larking House. “I have always had a fondness for Shakespeare,” Hayashi shares. “I enjoyed reading his works throughout college, and I am always fulfilled when studying the Bard.”
This production of “Julius Caesar” is particularly timely, chosen by The Larking House’s executive team in light of 2024 being an election year. Hayashi explains, “We find ourselves producing primarily either classics or world premieres, and this one falls squarely within that vision, merging the traditional legacy of Shakespeare with contemporary relevance.”
What sets this adaptation apart is its reimagined setting. Instead of the familiar landscape of ancient Rome, Hayashi transports the narrative to a world on the brink of apocalypse. “We ask ourselves, ‘What would the world look like if it ended tomorrow? What would be left?’” he says. This apocalyptic lens not only underscores vulnerability in power but also magnifies the play’s themes of ambition, betrayal, and society as a whole.

Adapting Shakespeare’s script to accommodate a smaller cast was both “an artistic and practical decision,” Hayashi explains. “With a cast size of less than half the listed characters, it was important that we scale back to make the piece accessible.” The apocalyptic setting serves a dual purpose. “First, the play takes place in an upside-down world where previous power structures no longer exist,” Hayashi notes. “I figured there was no better way of conveying an upside-down world, other than setting it in an apocalypse. In addition, by modernizing the setting, the production runs parallel to current issues. I believe that modernizing the settings in Shakespearean works can help illuminate the parallels that exist in our own lives.”
Behind the scenes, the production team faces another challenge. “Currently, we are still working on figuring out how to fit a dozen actors on such a small stage,” Hayashi admits. Yet, he views these challenges as opportunities for creativity. “I like to believe that all challenges within a production are gifts in disguise. Art is at its most creative when it is forced to be.”
Hayashi commends the collaboration and dedication of The Larking House’s cast and crew. “The cast and crew for this production have been absolutely incredible. We have truly assembled a village to help make this thing happen. Each team member has been so generous and has uplifted this process immensely.”
One of Hayashi’s favorite lines from the play outlines the tension felt by a community undergoing forced change:
“Either there is a civil strife in heaven,
Or else the world, too saucy with the gods,
Incenses them to send destruction.”
He emphasizes that the play also explores the role of the individual within the community.

Hayashi hopes audiences come into the production with one idea of what the play is about and leave with a new perspective. “Sometimes, when this play is mentioned, the first thing people think about is Caesar’s assassination. Already, there is a sense of power and politics. However, there is a whole sea of characters and ideas that exist as well. My goal is for audiences to find themselves somewhere within this story and reconsider their understanding of power, leadership, and community.”
He invites folks to just “come see it.” The Larking House not only honors the original text but also challenges it, inviting audiences to reflect on the nature of power, the human spirit, and chaos.
MaryAnn DiPietro is an actor, singer, pianist, music director, and writer.
“The Tragedy of Julius Caesar”
The Larking House
January 23-February 1, 2025

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