HILLBARK Players' production of Shakespeare's classic play Julius Caesar will be staged later this month.

Described as 'arguably one of the most famous plays of all time' it explores the themes of loyalty, betrayal and power.

The story is set in Rome and follows the conspiracy against Julius Caesar, the leader of the Roman republic.

The Hillbark Players' production, directed by NODA award-winning Ruth Stenhouse and Stuart Rathe, will be staged at Royden Park from June 19-24 with what promises to be 'an engaging and interesting spin'.

The Soothsayer and the Ides of March are two significant elements in Julius Caesar.

The Soothsayer, played by Hillbark stalwart Pauline Garland warns Caesar to 'Beware the Ides of March' she has foreseen his death on this day. Does he heed her warning?

'The Ides' fall on the 15th day of March in the Roman calendar and were based on the phases of the moon.

Wirral Globe: Rehearsal underway for Julius CaesarRehearsal underway for Julius Caesar (Image: Hillbark Players)

It is traditionally associated with the festival of Lupercalia, an ancient Roman fertility rite, which was believed to ward off evil spirits and ensure fertility and good fortune.

Co-director Ruth Stenhouse said: "We can’t wait to see our production come to life on stage, the casting is excellent and the set and lighting design is phenomenal.

"We are confident that our loyal Hillbark audiences will love it!"

A spokesperson for Hillbark Players said: "The story of Julius Caesar is well-known. Hillbark Players are bringing a fresh new take on it, exploring what happens when people have or seek power.

"The directorial team behind 2019's smash hit A Midsummer Night's Dream returns with a new twist on this historical drama.

"The production begins with Rome's raucous and thrilling Festival of the Wolf – the Lupercal.

"Encompassing political electioneering, plotting and a blood-soaked assassination, we promise you a rollercoaster ride filled with some of Shakespeare’s most powerful speeches and dramatic scenes.

Wirral Globe: Rehearsal underway for Julius CaesarRehearsal underway for Julius Caesar (Image: Hillbark Players)

"Hillbark Players are the company who have brought you open-air Shakespeare on Wirral since 1964 and we are proud of our history of supporting the arts on Wirral.

"We look forward to welcoming our loyal patrons back to Royden Park and to our 500-seat, undercover, open-air arena, for an immersive and dynamic show - watching history unfold before their eyes!"

Tickets are on sale here or the Floral Pavilion on 0151 666 0000