PETTY MEN

Buzz Studios, a new production company founded by Adam Goodbody, announces its inaugural production, Petty Men created by Goodbody, John Chisham and Júlia Levai. Opening at Arcola Theatre’s Studio 2 on 24 November, with previews from 19 November, and runs until 20 December 2025. Levai directs Goodbody and Chisham in the two-hander, in the roles of Understudy Cassius and Understudy Brutus respectively.

The production company is named in honour of Buzz Goodbody, Royal Shakespeare Company’s first female director a passionate campaigner for affordable theatre and accessibility in the arts. This year marks the 50th anniversary of her passing, and Buzz Studios has been created to continue her legacy of fearless, socially engaged theatre.

“Petty. Adjective. Of little importance.”

Petty Men is a radical reworking of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Set in a dressing room, two understudies attempt to out-perform the show relay. But their unfolding production brings their friendship to a crisis point. As worlds collide and reality warps, can they hold on to themselves? How far would you go to achieve your ambitions?

A thrilling and ambitious take on Julius Caesar that actively engages and wrestles with the themes of Shakespeare’s text to resonate with our now.

On 26 November, a special Gala Evening, A Celebration of Buzz, will follow the performance.

Every performance of Petty Men will be captioned.

Tickets: £15 – £37 - BOOK NOW

Venue details