‘GREEK,’ modern retelling of a classic, runs March 2-5
The Cornell College Department of Theatre and Dance will produce Steven Berkoff’s “GREEK” March 2-5 in Kimmel Theatre on the Cornell College campus.
The department’s new head of acting, Caroline Price, directs this exciting retelling of the ancient Greek tragedy, “Oedipus Rex.” This contemporary retelling offers a fresh and edgy approach to our hero’s journey, his search for his true identity, and the redemptive power of love.
“This is not your mother’s Oedipus,” says Price. “Audiences should expect a modern, racy, and snarky version of Sophocles’ masterpiece. Berkoff takes the story of Oedipus, wraps it in dark humor, and slaps you in the face with its South London feel.”
This modern, twisted version of the myth combines Shakespearean grandeur with Cockney slang to a riotous effect, creating an electric and often aggressive atmosphere. Price’s production has created bold staging for this punk “love poem” to the spirit of Oedipus.
Cornell junior Bobby Nowak ’18 plays the hero Eddie. He is joined by area Equity actor Patrick Du Laney, Cornell alumna MC Cole ’15, and area actor Robyn Calhoun. Scenic and lighting design is by Cornell theatre professor Scott Olinger, projections design is by Kristen Geisler, and costume design is by costume shop supervisor and theatre lecturer Jenny Nutting Kelchen.
On opening night, March 2, audiences are invited to stay for a post-show reception sponsored by Mount Vernon’s First Street Community Center Uptown Theatre and Dance Arts Iowa immediately following the performance. Each night before the show and at intermission, audiences are welcome to enjoy a cash bar run by Bon Appetit, the college’s food service.
“GREEK” runs one weekend only, March 2-4 at 7:30 p.m., and March 5 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults; $7 for seniors, students, and youth; and free for Cornell College faculty, staff, and students with ID. Tickets can be reserved by calling 319.895.4293 or emailing boxoffice@cornellcollege.edu. This production is intended for mature audiences and seating is very limited.
Kimmel Theatre is accessible through the front doors of Armstrong Hall. Parking is available in the lot behind and to the south of the theater at the corner of College Boulevard and Summit Avenue.
