The Cast Photo by Quinten Avila

Quite simply, this is a production one does not want to miss. Under the expert direction of Quinn Mader, a talented and experienced company delivers a beautifully designed, action packed, and skillfully and sensitively acted show. The pace never lags in the two-hour, ten-minute running time. On opening night, the play was error free and completely engaging.

Coriolanus is one of the lesser-produced Shakespearian tragedies. The play's theme of discontent with government has made it popular during turbulent times. Its examination of power, class, pride, and honor along with its many fight scenes have also endeared it to many male actors. Coriolanus has been played by several outstanding male actors, including Paul Scofield, Ian McKellen, Tommy Lee Jones, Toby Stephens, Christopher Walken, Morgan Freeman, Ralph Fiennes, Tom Hiddleston and David Oyelowo. A 2011 film starred and was directed by Ralph Fiennes and included Vanessa Redgrave as Volumnia, Brian Cox as Menenius, and Gerard Butler as Tullus Aufidius. It is a political tragedy, a family tragedy, and a personal tragedy that examines conflict, power, and revenge.

There are many good things about this production. The integrated music and sound are well chosen and executed with precision. The movement and fight choreography are also beautifully done. In a relatively small performing area, excellent decisions are made that enhance the fight scenes. Lauren Senechal is the set and costume designer and the fight director. The creative decisions she made in all these areas are exceptional. Costumes are thoughtfully created and colors are used to signal the allegiances of the warring groups. The set uses the entire space with multiple levels and set pieces that convey the ancient setting with simple and iconic symbols.

Prop designer Quinten Avila provides props that are easily used by the actors and evoke the ancient time of the play. Sound and music have been designed by Crash Buist, who also plays Coriolanus. This facilitates the actor's timing and use of the drums and fighting sticks on stage. Veteran lighting designer Riley Lewis lights all the action well and provides an eerie and somber atmosphere that suits the play. In short, all the physical elements are thoughtful and specific and in service of the overall aesthetic.

The acting in this production is top notch. Every member of the cast, from the most minor plebian to Coriolanus, is focused and engaged. Of special mention is Crash Buist as Coriolanus, who brings a rough fighter's sensibility to the role while handling the Shakespearian language well. Owen Reid Callis is outstanding as Menenius, providing humor and explicating the action. But it is Augusta Allen-Jones as Volumnia, Coriolanus' mother, who brings the most completely developed character to the play. This role is truly an actor's dream, and Allen-Jones is excellent. Her steely resolve and her touching love for her son are clear in her portrayal.

This is one of the best productions seen in Albuquerque in the recent past. Many talented performers and creatives have come together to make it a must-see show. Don't miss the chance to see this rarely produced Shakespearean tragedy.

Coriolanus runs through October 26, 2025, at North 4th Theatre, 4904 4th St. NW, Albuquerque NM. Performances are Thursday - Sunday at 7:30 pm, Sunday matinee at 2 pm. General Admission $25, Discounted $22. For tickets and information, please visit nmshakes.org

Directed by Quinn Mander, Set and Costume Designer & Fight Director – Lauren Senechal, Sound Designer – Crash Buist, Lighting Designer – Riley Lewis, Prop Designer – Quinten Avila, Assistant Director – Alexis M Hadsall, Production Stage Manager – Arianne Cohen.

The Cast: Crash Buist, Augusta Allen-Jones, Owen Reid Callis, Alex Glover, Ian Gabriel, Lauren Senechal, Owen Danan Martin, Nicee Brown, Neil Faulconbridge, Vee Council, Colyn Morris, Jesse Liesveld, Robyn Casper, Ryan Sloan, Quinn M. Mander, Theo Rosolino.