Having been performed in repertory theatres worldwide, such as Madison, Berkeley and Yale, and even played as a libretto at the L.A Opera, Sarah Ruhl’s Eurydice is now about to take the stage in St Andrews. Part of On the Rocks Festival 2022, the play is being produced by Quite Nice Productions and will show on the St.Age on the 14th and 15th of March. It is the well-known Greek myth of Orpheus, re-told through the eyes of his wife Eurydice – a student production sure to amaze and move.
Here with me to tell us all about the upcoming play are directors Molly Ketcheson and Kate Stamoulis, as well as producer Francesca Ash.
What is the story of Eurydice about?
This play is based on the classic myth of Eurydice and Orpheus, but completely reframed for a ‘modern’ audience ready for an even wackier take on the story than ever before. Set in a timeless setting, the story is told through the perspectives of many lively characters sure to make you laugh. Unlike the original myth, Euridyce does not place its focus on the relationship between Euridyce and Orpheus but, rather, the bond between her and her father. It will remind us of love and let us question the commonly accepted contrast between the dead and living and give new meaning to memories of what have been lost.
What inspired you to put on Eurydice as a student production?
[Directors]: We have worked together for a long time, mostly on musical productions, but we knew that we wanted to direct a theatrical play as well. When the day came, both of us felt that Eurydice was the one, and so the choice ended up being very easy. We just love the play from start to finish!
Credit: Louise Anderbjork
Is there anything unique about putting on Eurydice compared to your earlier productions?
One of the most notable things about this play is that you cannot take the script just as it is written. You have to engage with it and make it yours, both as an actor and as a director. Additionally, the musical element of this theatrical production definitely makes it stand out. We have super talented musicians who write original music for the whole show, ranging from background music to songs embedded in the acting. Most importantly, it will all be performed live on the day, and will most certainly enhance the viewers experience and the element of surprise.
Why should everyone go and see the show?
Eurydice is a production filled with fantastic actors, musicians and crew members. It will be a 90-minute, one-act performance on the St.Age which allows for actors to interact with the audience on a new level. The script is experimental, sure to keep the audience engaged, and there are several cool elements like advanced lighting and even some British sign language, which will add onto the show and make it a version of the story you have never seen before. In this production of Eurydice, there is no right or wrong, but simply the aim to create a performance the viewer will never forget.
Credit: Louise Anderbjork
For more info on the Eurydice 2022 production, follow @ustaeurydice (Instagram) and @EurydiceStAndrews (Facebook). Tickets will soon be available for purchase on the St Andrews Union website.
Comments