February 2009
United States Premiere Of
The Odyssey
Produced by Terri McKinstry and Will Morrison
Directed by Bob Benn
Rick Chafe’s adaptation of Homer’s epic poem includes many of the same characters from the classic “Odyssey,” but he updates much of the language from the original while adding a contemporary spin to much of the story telling.
With Odysseus gone for 20 years, Penelope faces an unwanted marriage to one of her murderous suitors. A beggar asks the queen to wait until she's heard his story – fantastic tales of her husband's travels. In this new telling, Odysseus returns to do battle--not just with the suitors, but with Penelope herself, over their fidelity and their kingdom.
Auditions:
5 Women and 9 Men: all ages
Tuesday & Wednesday, December 2 & 3, 2008
7:00 – 9:30 PM
Readings from the script.
Performances:
Fridays and Saturdays: February 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28 at 8:00 pm
Thursdays: February 19 and 26 at 8:00 pm
Sundays: February 15, 22, and March 1 at 2:30 pm (matinee)
Characters:
The Stranger (mid-40s)
Appears as a beggar before Penelope – with news of her husband. Is revealed late in the play to be Odysseus.
Young Odysseus (mid-20s to mid- 30s)
As the Stranger tells Penelope what he knows of her husband and his travels, we “see” the young Odysseus in his many exploits.
Telemachus (early 20s)
The son of Penelope and Odysseus. He idolizes his missing father and is uncomfortable with the reputation his mother is gaining. He has just returned from searching for his father.
Eurymachus (30s-40s)
One of the principal suitors of Penelope. He hatches the plot to kill Telemachus and force Penelope’s hand in marriage.
The Women
Penelope (early to mid-40s)
Odysseus’ wife. She has patiently waited for him to return from the Trojan Wars, but it has been 20 years, and she has to choose between hoping for his return and deciding on a new husband from her many suitors. When the beggar arrives with his stories, she is not easily convinced he’s telling the truth.
Eurycleia (60s+)
Was wet nurse to Odysseus, and has stayed by Penelope’s side during his absence. She has her suspicions about the Stranger.
Athena (any age)
Goddess who prompts the telling of the story. This actress will have two solo songs, and will also be part of the Women’s Ensemble, taking on several cameo roles.
Calypso (any age)
The first of many goddesses who try to ensnare Odysseus’ heart. This actress will also be part of the Women’s Ensemble, taking on several cameo roles.
Circe (any age)
Another goddess who tries to capture Odysseus’ heart. She directs Odysseus through the terrifying final events that lead him home. This actress will also be part of the Women’s Ensemble, taking on several cameo roles.
Men’s Ensemble
(any age)
An additional corps of up to 5 actors will take on the dual roles of Odysseus’ crewmates and Penelope’s suitors, with some additional cameo roles throughout the play, as well.
* All ages are approximates.
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