Now in rehearsal: OEDIPUS THE KING

Welcome to the fall production of the Drama Guild:  OEDIPUS THE KING by Sophocles, with a translation by Don Taylor.  OEDIPUS REX, as it is also known, was originally produced at the City Dionysia Festival around 420 BC, a period during which it was considered the duty of every free male to attend the theatre!  Theatre was not only entertainment, but it served a civic and religious purpose as well.  Productions for the festival were funded by wealthy citizens appointed as patrons by the state, and playwrights and actors competed for prizes.  Three actors played all the individual roles, surrounded by a chorus.  Actors wore masks to help differentiate their roles.  Our company consists of ten actors, (plus two children), with everyone taking a turn in the chorus, as well as playing solo parts.  We have artist Zach Green guiding us in the creation of papier mache masks.  We also have Benedictine volunteers Nick Crowley and Michael Carandang working with us.  Today, alumnus and classics scholar Danny Kane '03 came to talk to us about the history and social context of the play.  We hope you join us throughout the rehearsal process, as we face the challenges of a different theatrical tradition - choral speaking, acting in masks, and ritualized movement and chant.  We look forward to reading your comments, and of course, we hope to see you at one of the performances!  Our production dates are Nov. 21st-23rd at 7pm and Nov. 24th at 2pm.