Synetic Theater Revives 'Antony & Cleopatra' at Klein Theatre

Synetic Theater brings Shakespeare's epic tale of love and empire to the Klein Theatre with their distinctive wordless interpretation of "Antony & Cleopatra," running through January 25, 2026. This remounting of their acclaimed 2010 production transforms Shakespeare's political and romantic tragedy into a visual spectacle told entirely through movement, sound, and striking theatrical imagery.

Antony & Cleopatra presented by Synetic Theater at Klein Theatre

The production explores the fatal romance between Mark Antony of Rome and Cleopatra of Egypt against the backdrop of shifting empires and political alliances. The story begins as Cleopatra battles her brother Ptolemy for the throne of Egypt, only to see her kingdom fall under the expanding influence of the Roman Empire following her alliance with Julius Caesar. When Antony arrives in Egypt after Caesar's death, his wavering loyalties transform this political saga into an all-consuming love story that ultimately leads to tragedy.

Director Paata Tsikurishvili and choreographer Irina Tsikurishvili have crafted a production that emphasizes physical storytelling and theatrical flair. The cast brings Shakespeare's characters to life through dance, acrobatic movement, and expressive choreography that ranges from sweepingly romantic sequences to intense battle scenes. Vato Tsikurishvili takes on the role of Antony, while Irina Kavsadze portrays Cleopatra, with their chemistry anchoring the emotional heart of the production.

The visual design creates a memorable stage picture, with Phil Charlwood's pyramidal set suggesting both ancient Egypt and a symbolic representation of empire. Erik Teague's costume design distinguishes the two cultures, draping the Egyptians in flowing cotton while clothing the Romans in bold crimson that evokes gladiatorial power. The production makes use of geometric lighting effects and incorporates rope work and acrobatic elements, particularly in an impressive sea battle sequence that serves as the production's climactic moment.

The storytelling approach blends diverse movement styles, from undulating dance sequences that capture Egyptian mystique to forceful military choreography representing Roman power. The production runs approximately 95 minutes without intermission, maintaining a brisk pace through the complex narrative. Original music and sound design serve as aural choreography, creating atmosphere and emotional resonance without the use of dialogue.

Supporting performances add depth to the world of the play, with Stella Bunch appearing as Mardian in an expanded interpretation that adds spiritual dimensions to Cleopatra's court. Zana Gankhuyag portrays Enobarbus, Antony's loyal friend, capturing the tension between personal loyalty and political duty. The ensemble work creates the sense of nations in conflict, with choreography that contrasts the mechanized efficiency of Roman military might against the more fluid sensuality of the Egyptian court.

This production marks another chapter in Synetic Theater's ongoing exploration of classic texts through their signature physical theater style. Since losing their longtime home in Crystal City, the company has performed at various venues throughout the DC area, and their return to the Klein Theatre where this interpretation premiered years ago brings the production full circle. The intimate venue allows audiences to experience the detailed physical performances and expressive choreography up close.

"Antony & Cleopatra" tells a timeless story about the collision between personal desire and political responsibility, rendered here through visual storytelling that transcends language. The production captures both the grandeur of ancient empires and the intimate human drama at the center of Shakespeare's tragedy, offering audiences a unique theatrical experience that emphasizes spectacle, movement, and the power of physical expression.

The show continues through January 25, 2026 at the Michael R. Klein Theatre, located at 450 7th Street NW in Washington, DC. Tickets range from $74 to $141 and are available through the Shakespeare Theatre Company box office and online. This production offers DC audiences the chance to experience one of Shakespeare's complex historical dramas reimagined through Synetic Theater's distinctive artistic vision.