[Theatre, SA Premiere]
The Penelopiad
The Little Theatre, University of Adelaide, Fri 23 May.
The Little Theatre within the University of Adelaide is the ideal setting for ‘The Penelopiad,’ this intriguing play by Margaret Atwood. Its raked seating in classical style perfectly suits the re-telling of these Greek tales. And being reduced in size, it makes for an intimate and absorbing experience. Here the point of view is flipped to bring the female narrative into the spotlight. Their version of events is told by Penelope, the wife of Odysseus, along with her female maids. They provide much more detail and filling in of the gaps which are otherwise absent from history. When his-story is written only by men, it has an inherent bias. And this bias builds its own momentum when allowed to carry on.
Penelope’s Maids also become the Chorus. In this traditional role they advance the story with excellent songs, featuring original music by Kristin Stefanoff, as well as creating action scenes all the way from battles to birthing babies. Their many roles serve to reveal the shocking state of the relationship between the sexes. The minimal set presents potent and compelling images, with basic props performing multiple functions.
Given Margaret Atwood’s declared stance on feminism, I did hear of one man who declined to come in case the play is overtly didactic. But Atwood is a far better writer than that. This energetic ensemble transforms it, giving it a new life with a shipload of talent and a fine sensitivity to all aspects of the human condition. Thanks to a deft hand at directing by Kristin Telfer, the dramatic tension is maintained superbly throughout, with a decent dose of humour to season these serious themes.
In a world where males are heroes simply through their gender, and women are powerless property at best, they demonstrate the tactics they develop to not only survive but to endure. By withstanding their horrible treatment, they form bonds that are stronger than any swords. It is not only the ‘eastern’ principle that holds submission as the subtle way to win in the end; it is nature in all her complexity who shows us how those who evolve with the capacity to bend, to be flexible and adapt will go on to last. The stories of the Iliad and the Odessey contain themes that resonate through the ages and matter today. This play has plenty of powerful messages, especially for those who continue to hide behind the pillars of patriarchy, or who shy away from the need to nurture their own innate caring nature.
Odysseus has a habit of heading off, always running away towards another new adventure. Despite his extensive stay in Troy, then an even longer journey wending his way home through many trials and delectable tribulations, he yearns to travel as soon as he returns. He says ‘every dream is a hidden door,’ and wants to see what’s on the other side.
This epic is pushed to the point where desperate measures are called for. Penelope says ‘we must drink from the waters of forgetfulness’ to move on. But she can’t forget the injustices, and we too are charged with the duty to recognise and act on these.
Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad is an adaptation of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey.
Presented by the University of Adelaide Theatre Guild.
5 stars
David Cronin
The Penelopiad continues at The Little Theatre at Adelaide University at various times until Sun 1
June. Click HERE to purchase your tickets:
#TheClothesline
The Clothesline Rating
David Cronin
"an intimate and absorbing experience"
