This is a delightful retelling of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. This time from a female perspective. The setting, the Sunken Garden at Holden Street Theatres, gives the performance a lovely ambience and is so appropriate as most of the story takes place outdoors.
Casey Jay Andrews and Serena Manteghi, accompanied by a guitarist, deliver a fast paced performance incorporating dialogue, monologue, song and dance.
After a brief informative intro the story begins with 5 year old Leni (Eurydice) on her first day of school determined to control her own fate . She insists on wearing a super hero costume and we see her struggle with her mother Cyrene who is torn between wanting her daughter to conform whilst at the same time being delighted by her force of will and rebellious nature.
We travel through adolescence and young love, through romance and ultimate betrayal. This retelling follows the trajectory of the ancient tale however in the final scenes Eurydice’s experience and sense of self dictate a different outcome.
There are skilful performances all round. Serena’s character ages from 5 to 35 whilst Casey transforms into multiple characters over the course of the play.
The language is poetic, the play is expertly crafted, clever and funny. This telling of the tale of Orpheus and Eurydice honours the complexity and nuances of the classic but in a modern twist Eurydice is empowered.
Holden Street Theatres until 16th March.
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